The Robinsons and their kin folk (1906)

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COMPLIMENTS OF

THE ROBINSON FAMILY

Genealogical and Historical Society

MISS A. A. ROBINSON, Secretary
North Raynham, Mass.

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The Robinson Family

Genealogical and Historical

Association

The Robinsons and Their Kin Folk

THIRD SERIES, JULY, 1906

OFFICERS, CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS
SECRETARY'S REPORT, HISTORICAL
SKETCHES ILLUSTRATED, MEM-
BERS OF ASSOCIATION

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NEW YORK

PUBLISHED BY THE .ASSOCIATION

■1906

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Giiii
Author

Contents

Officers of the Association
Constitution . . . .

By-Laws

Secretary's Report

Executive Committee Meeting

Rowland Robinson, the Man and His Century

Deputy Governor William Robinson

The Narragansett Pacer

Genealogy of the Robinson Family of Narragansett
Rowland Robinson and His Daughter Hannah

Jeremiah Potter Robinson

George Champlin Robinson ....

Atmore Robinson

Hetty (Robinson) Green

Morton Robinson, M. D

Gilbert Stuart

George Robinson, ok Watertown, Mass.. and Willi

OF Dorchester, Mass. .
The Fathers, Where Were They?
John Robinson, of Kittery and Cape Elizabeth, Me
Abraham Robinson ....

John Robinson, ok Exeter, N. H.
Isaac Robinson, of Barnstable, Mass.
History of the Fell Family
Captain Ralph Hamer
The Robinson Family, Virgini.\
Samuel Robinson, of Rehoboth, Mass
Members of the Robinson .Association

. R.

I.

AM Robinson

page

V

VI

VII

I

7

9

23

25

28

42

55
57
59
60
62
67

69

74
79
89

100
124
129
132
138
142

I5f

Illustrations

Miss A. A. Robinson

Mrs. Almira Pierce Johnson

Morton Robinson Robinson. M. D.

The Beach at Narragansett

Indian Rock at Narragansett

Elizabeth Robinson

Main Street, Kingston, R. I.

Mrs. Hetty Robinson Green

Gilbert Stuart's Birthplace

Sylvester Robinson

George C. Robinson

Cellar of John Robinson's House

Joshua Robinson House

Pond Cove, Cape Elizabeth

Cliff at Pond Cove

Shadrach Robinson House .

Coat of Arms of the Fell Family

Coat of Arms of Robinson of Beverly

Coat of Arms of Robinson of Ireland

Coat of Arms of Hutchinson Family

page
frontispiece

facing page I

between pages 64 AND 65

between pages 80 AND 81

FACING PAGE 128
BETWEEN PAGES 136 AND I37

Officers of the Association

President,
HON. DAVID I. ROBINSON, Gloucester, Mass.

Vice Presidents
Judge Gifford S. Robinson,
Increase Robinson,
George R. Wright,
George O. Robinson,
Prof. Wm. H. Brewer,
Roswell R. Robinson,
N. Bradford Dean,
Rev. Wm. A. Robinson. D. D.,
John H. Robinson,
Charles F. Robinson,
George W. Robinson,
Henry P. Robinson,

Sioux City, la.

Waterville, Me.

Wilkesbarre, Pa.

Detroit, Mich.

New Haven, Conn.

Maiden, Mass.

Taunton, Mass.

Poughkeepsie, N. Y.

Boston, Mass.

North Raynham, Mass.

Elburn. 111.

Guilford. Conn.

Secretary,
Adelaide A. Robinson, North Raynham. Mass.

\ Treasurer,
Roswell R. Robinson. Maiden. Mass.

Historiographer,
Charles K. Robinson. 150 Nassau St.. New York.

Executive Committee.
Frederick W. Robinson,
Charles K. Robinson.
Charles Larned,
Orlando G. Robinson.
Bethuel Penniman.

Boston, Mass.

Brooklyn. N. Y.

Boston. Mass.

Raynham, Mass.

New Bedford, Mass.

Constitution

1. The name of this Association shall be "The Robinson Fam-
ily Genealogical and Historical Association."

2. The purpose for which it is constituted is the collection,
compilation and publication of such data and information as may
be obtained concerning the Robinson Families.

3. Any person connected with the descendants of

William^ Robinson of Dorchester,

George^ of Rehoboth,

William^ of VVatertown,

Isaac- of Barnstable, son of Rev. John,

Abraham^ of Gloucester,

George^ of Watertown,

John^ of Exeter, N. H.,

Stephen^ of Dover, N. H.,

Thomas^ of Scituate,

James^ of Dorchester,

William of Salem,

Christopher of Virginia,

Samuel of New England,

Gain of Plymouth,

or of any other Robinson ancestor, by descent or marriage, may
become a member of the Association.

There shall be a membership fee of one dollar, and an annual
due of twenty-five cents, or ten dollars for life membership,
subject to no annual dues.

4. The ofificers of the Association shall be a President, twelve
Vice-Presidents, a Secretary, a Treasurer, Historiographer, and
an Executive Committee of five.

By-Laws

1. The President shall preside at all business meetings of
the Association, and in his absence a Vice-President shall per-
form the duties of President.

2. The Secretary shall keep the records and minutes of the
meetings.

3. The Treasurer shall receive all monies of the Association.
He shall have the custody of all the funds belonging to the
Association. He shall disburse the same under the direction of
the Executive Committee.

4. The Executive Committee shall have the control of the
afTairs of the Association and its property, and shall receive for
safe custody all documents entrusted to them. It shall be their
duty to make arrangements to obtain all data and information
concerning the descendants of the aforesaid Robinson ancestors
for the purpose of compilation and publication of the same. The
officers of the Association shall be ex-ofificio members of the
Executive Committee.

5. The members of the Executive Conmiittee present at any
regular notified meeting shall form a quorum. They may fill any
vacancies that may occur in the board of officers until others are
regularly appointed.

MRS. ALMIRA PIERCE JOHNSON
Milford, Mass.

Born, June 24, 1804

Died, December 25, 1905

Aged, 101 years, 6 months, I day

Secretary's Report

X the morning of the 19th day of August, 1904,
the Robinsons and their Kin Folk gathered in the
old historic town of Plymouth, Mass., to hold the
third biennial meeting of The Robinson Family
Genealogical and Historical Association, where
landed that little band of Pilgrims with the bless-
ing of their beloved pastor, the Rev. John Robin-
son of Leyden, two hundred and eighty-four
years before.
This little band of pioneers builded better than they knew,
laying not only the foundation of a mighty nation, but made it
possible for this notable gathering of the Kin Folk to-day.

The meeting was held in the lecture room of the Universalist
Church, whose doors were hospitably thrown open for this
occasion.

The members of the Executive Committee met at ten o'clock,
and at eleven o'clock the Association was called to order by the
President, Hon. David I. Robinson of Gloucester, Mass., and
led in prayer by the Rev. Lucian Moore Robinson of Phila-
delphia, Pa.

On motion, Ebenezer T. Robinson, M. D., of Orange City.
Fla., was chosen secretary pro tern., and Miss Myra S. Robinson
of Pawtucket. R. I., assistant secretary pro tem.

On motion, the secretary's report of the proceedings of the
last biennial meeting, held at Gloucester, Mass., on the 26th of
August, 1902, was read and adopted.

N. Bradford Dean, treasurer of the Association, then ad-
dressed the chair, calling the attention of the assembly to the
lamentable and painful accident to the secretary of the Associa-
tion. Miss Adelaide A. Robinson of North Raynham. Mass.,
which was the cause of her unavoidable absence to-day. He
•stated that she was thrown from her carriage on the 2d of
August, 1903. by a trolley car which came in collision with

2 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

and overturned her carriage, injuring lier spine seriously, so that
she has been constantly confined to her bed under the care of a
physician since the accident ; that notwithstanding her painful
condition, with assistance she has performed her duties as secre-
tary of this Association most faithfully, replying to her volumin-
ous correspondence in relation to the object and aim of this so-
ciety. In conclusion, he made a motion that Miss Robinson be
made an honorary member of this Association, as a testimonial of
the esteem which she is held by us. The motion was seconded
and unanimously adopted.

Mrs. Calista Robinson Jones of Bradford, Vt., moved that
a telegram of sympathy and condolence be transmitted to our
absent secretary. Miss Robinson, which was adopted, and Mrs.
Jones, N. Bradford Dean and Charles E. Robinson of New Jer-
sey, were chosen as a committee to prepare the telegram and a
set of resolutions.

Members of the Association and visitors from their respec-
tive States were invited to address the meeting, which called forth
remarks from Dr. E. T. Robinson of Orange City, Fla. ; Mrs.
Martha S. Robinson of Portland, Me. ; Rev. Lucian M. Robinson
of Philadelphia, Pa. ; Hamlin E. Robinson of Maryville, Mo. ;
Prof. O. D. Robinson of Albany, N. Y. ; A. O. Robinson of San-
bornville, N. H. ; William Robinson of Boston, and others.

At the request of N. Bradford Dean, treasurer, that an audit-
ing committee be appointed to examine his accounts, Roswell R.
Robinson of Maiden, Mass. ; William Robinson of Boston, Mass.,
and Albert O. Robinson of Sanbornville, N. H., were appointed
the committee.

A telegram was read from Mrs. Ida Robinson Bronson, who
was on her way to attend the meeting, when she was recalled to
Detroit, Mich., by the sudden death of her brother, Frank E.
Robinson.

Prof. O. D. Robinson of Albany, N. Y., spoke of the recent
death of Samuel S. Robinson of Michigan, Mrs. Bronson's father.
In the course of his remarks, he spoke of Mr. Robinson's great
work in forwarding the vast mining interests of his State, and of
his noble characteristics as a man.

N. Bradford Dean spoke feelingly of the death of James H.
Dean, Esq., of Taunton, one of the vice-presidents of this Asso-
ciation.

SBCRBTARY'S REPORT 3

On motion of Charles E. Robinson, a vote of sympathy was
passed, to be forwarded to the famihes of members who have
died since the last biennial meeting of the Association.

On motion, the following were appointed as members pro
tem. to fill vacancies on the Executive Committee: Roswell R.
Robinson of ]\Ialden, Mass. ; Dr. E. P. Robinson of Newport,
R. I. ; Hamlin E. Robinson of Maryville, jMo.

Suggestions as to the place to be selected for holding the
next biennial meeting of the Association in 1906 were called for
from the chair. Remarks in this connection were made by Mrs.
Martha S. Robinson of Portland, Me. ; Hon. X. W. Littlefield of
Pawtucket, R. I., and Dr. E. T. Robinson of Florida, setting forth
the advantages of their respective locations.

The committee on telegram to be sent to Miss Robinson, the
secretary, reported they had attended to their duty, and offered
the following resolutions, which were unanimously adopted :

Resolved, That we deeply appreciate the arduous services
performed the past year under the most trying circumstances by
our highly esteemed and faithful secretary. Miss Adelaide A.
Robinson ; that we fully recognize her self-sacrificing devotion in
the interest and prosperity of this Association, though suffering
intensely from the deplorable accident which befell her.

Resolved, That Miss Robinson has our warmest sympathy
in her trying affliction and our heart-felt wishes for her speedy
recovery.

Rcsoli'ed, That this, our tribute of her devotion, be made a
part of the minutes of this convention and that a copy thereof be
transmitted to her as an expression of the high esteem in which
she is held by us.

On motion, the following named were appointed a committee
to nominate a board of officers for the ensuing term : James L.
Robinson of Brockton, Mass. ; A. P. R. Gilmore of Acushnet,
Mass., and Dr. E. P. Robinson of Newport, R. I.

The report of the Auditing Committee was called for. The
committee reported the books of the treasurer correct and a bal-
ance of $279.59 ^^ the treasury.

The treasurer, N. Bradford Dean, olTercd his resigitation of
that office, with the remark that his other business was of such
a nature that it would not admit of his giving the time and atten-

4 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

tion to the duties of treasurer which it demanded. His resigna-
tion was accepted and a vote passed thanking him for his faithful
discharge of the duties of the office since the organization of the
Association.

On motion of Charles E. Robinson, Mrs. Ahnira Pierce
Johnson of Milford, Mass., was elected an honorary member of
this Association, she having reached the age of one hundred
years on the 24th of June last. She is a descendant of William^
Robinson of Watertown, Mass.

After a short discussion in relation to the incorporation of
the Association, it was voted to postpone the subject until the
next biennial meeting.

The committee on the nomination of officers reported the
following list, which was adopted : President, Hon. David I.
Robinson of Gloucester, Mass. Vice-Presidents, Judge Gifford
S. Robinson, Sioux City, Iowa ; Increase Robinson, Waterville,
Me. ; George R. Wright, Wilkesbarre, Pa. ; George O. Robinson,
Detroit, Mich. ; Prof. William H. Brewer, New Haven, Conn. ;
Roswell R. Robinson, Maiden, Mass. ; N. Bradford Dean, Taun-
ton, Mass. ; Rev. William A. Robinson, D. D., Poughkeepsie,
N. Y. ; John H. Robinson, Boston, Mass. ; Charles F. Robinson,
North Raynham, Mass. ; George W. Robinson, Elburn, 111. ;
Henry P. Robinson, Guilford, Conn. Secretary, Adelaide A.
Robinson, North Raynham, Mass. ; Treasurer, Roswell R. Robin-
son, Maiden, Mass. ; Historiographer, Charles E. Robinson,
Plainfield, N. J. Executive Committee, Frederick W. Robinson.
Boston, Mass. ; Charles K. Robinson, Brooklyn, N. Y. ; Charles
Larned, Boston, Mass. ; Orlando G. Robinson, Raynham, Mass. ;
Bethuel Penniman, New Bedford, Mass.

On motion that a stated time for the payment of the annual
dues of members should be adopted, it was voted that the first
day of January in each year, following the time of joining the
Association, should be established as the date of payment of such
dues.

On motion, it was voted that the secretary might, at her
discretion, have additional copies of the brochures bound in cloth.
It was also voted that she charge not less than 50 cents each
for all- extra copies furnished the members, this not to include
complimentary copies for those preparing papers for the bro-
chures published by this Association.

SBCRETARY'S REPORT 5

On motion, the convention adjourned until two o'clock, to
partake of a collation in the dining-room of the church.

Afternoon Session.

At two o'clock the meeting was called to order by the presi-
dent.

A paper on Abraham Robinson, the ancestor of the Robin-
sons of Gloucester, Mass., by William A. Robinson of Gloucester,
was read by the president.

Prof. O. D. Robinson of Albany, N. Y., read a paper pre-
pared by Charles Nutt, editor of the Worcester Spy, Worcester,
Mass.

Hon. N. W. Littlefield of Pawtucket, R. I., made a most
pleasing address, giving an interesting account of his visit to the
home of the Pilgrims in England, on the occasion of the dedica-
tion of the John Robinson ^Memorial Church.

A paper by Mrs. Augusta A. Lakin of Bennington, N. H.,
on Douglas Robinson and his descendants in New Hampshire,
was read.

A song by Miss Peterson, accompanied by William A. Rob-
inson of Gloucester, was most enthusiastically encored.

The desirability of a distinctive badge to be adopted by the
Association was received with great favor, and on motion was
referred to the Executive Committee.

On motion, a committee consisting of John E. Kimball of
Oxford, Mass. ; Charles Larned of Boston, Mass. ; Hamlin E.
Robinson of Maryville, Mo., were chosen to solicit funds for
foreign research of records to establish the line of ancestry in
England, Ireland and Scotland of the early Robinson emigrants
to America.

The secretary's report of the work of her office was read and
adopted, as follows: From August 26, 1902, to August 15, 1904,
there were enrolled fourteen life members (twelve of whom had
previously been annual members), also sixty-eight annual mem-
bers.

The following eight deaths have been reported : Airs. Sarah
Robinson Atherton, honorary member, Peru, Ohio ; James H.
Dean, Esq., vice-president, Taunton, Alass. ; Capt. Charles T.
Robinson, vice-president, Taunton, Mass.; Mrs. JNiary R. Fuller,
Cambridgeport, Mass. ; Mr. Adrian G. Robinson, Hanford, Cal. ;

6 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Capt. Charles A. Robinson, Germantovvn, Pa. ; Mr. George A.
Robinson, West Mansfield, Mass. ; Mr. Samuel S. Robinson,
Pontiac, Mich.

Donations of money have been received from : George R.
Wright, Esq., Wilkesbarre, Pa. ; Mrs. J. E. R. Dow, Exeter,
N. H. ; Miss Martha G. Robinson, Lynn, Mass. ; Solomon D.
Robinson, Falmouth, Mass. ; Albert O. Robinson, Sanbornville,
N. H., and Hon. A. R. McClellan, Riverside, N. B., Can.

I have written and dictated seventeen hundred and fifty-three
letters, one hundred and eighty-five postal cards and have mailed
out thirty-four hundred and eighty-nine circulars and invitations,
including newspapers. A copy of "The Robinsons and Their Kin
Folk" has been donated to thirteen libraries, also one copy to
each and every member of this Association has been mailed to
them.

The following names were inadvertently omitted from the
list of members printed in the second series of "The Robinsons
and Their Kin Folk" : Frank R. Robinson, Boston, Mass. ; Rich-
ard L. Robinson, Portland, Me. ; Ebenezer Benjamin Robinson,
Savannah, Ga. ; Mrs. Jennie K. Talbot, Phcenixville, Pa.

At four o'clock it was announced that barges were in readi-
ness for the transportation of those who wished to make a tour of
the town and surrounding country.

A vote of thanks was passed to those who kindly furnished
the interesting papers read, and those the reading of which was
omitted for want of time. It was ordered that these historical
sketches be printed in the next issue of "The Robinsons and Thei>
Kin Folk."

A vote of thanks was extended to Mr. Fred W. Robinson
and Mr. John H. Robinson for the ample arrangements made
for the accommodation and comfort of the members of the Asso-
ciation.

A full list of all members who have joined the Association
since its foundation will be found in this edition of "The Robin •
sons and Their Kin Folk," with their present address so far as
reported to date.

The convention at four o'clock adjourned sine die to meet on
the next biennial occasion at Portland, Me.

Miss Adelaide A. Robinson.

North Raynham, Mass.. June 15, 1906.

Executive Committee Meeting

A meeting of the Executive Committee was held at the office
of Mr. Charles Larned, loi Tremont street, Boston, ^lass., ar
four o'clock on the afternoon of May 15, 1906, President Hon.
David I. Robinson in the chair. Fred W. Robinson, chairman
of the committee, acting as secretary. Members of the com-
mittee present were : Mr. Charles Larned of Oxford, Mass., and
Mr. Edward R. Barbour of Portland, Me. Also were present Mr.
Roswell R. Robinson, treasurer ; John H. Robinson, vice-presi-
dent, and Mr. John E. Kimball of Oxford, Mass.

Ten subjects for discussion and action were considered, viz. :
Place of Meeting ; Time of Meeting ; Entertainment ; Transpor-
tation ; Programme ; Revision of By-Laws ; Incorporation of the
Society ; Publication of Proceedings of Plymouth Meeting ; Pub-
lication of Records of Charles E. Robinson ; Foreign Investiga-
tion.

Place— The secretary reported by letter that at the Ply-
mouth meeting it was voted to hold the next reunion at Portland.
Me.

Time. — The committee recommended that the reunion be
held on two days, or parts of two days, instead of one. Sug-
gested and approved that those who could, go to Portland on the
day boat, others on the afternoon train of the first day, and an
informal reception be held that evening. Those who could not
go the first day, go down on the night boat, and the reports,
papers and banquet be held the second day, closing in time for
return boat or evening train.

Moved and carried that the chairman send circular letter
with return postals asking members for first and second choice
of dates, July 25-26, or August 1-2.

Bntertainuicnt. — Mr. Barbour reported that the Congress
Square Hotel would give a dinner for 75 cents and a rate of $3.00
per day and allow free of charge the Auditorium of the hotel for
the meeting. Moved and carried to accept. Also reported that

8 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

the street car company would provide special cars for a trolley
trip at the usual fare.

Transportation. — Mr. Barbour reported that the railroad
company would, if fifty persons were guaranteed, give special rate
of one and one-third fares for round trip.

Programme. — Moved and carried that Mr. Charles E. Rob-
inson be asked to prepare a programme for the meeting and that
as soon as prepared copies be mailed the members.

Revision of By-Lazvs. — Moved and carried that a committee
of two, of which the president be chairman, prepare revised set
of by-laws, to be submitted to the Association for adoption at the
Portland meeting. The president asked Mr. F. W. Robinson to
serve with him, and that others present offer such suggestions
regarding changes as they consider important.

Incorporation. — Mr. F. W. Robinson reported that he would
be ready at the Portland meeting to report, and that if deemed
advisable by the Association, the society could be incorporated
without delay.

Publication of Proceedings of PlymoiitJi Meeting. — Moved
and carried that Mr. Charles E. Robinson be authorized to have
published at once the proceedings of the Plymouth meeting and
that the secretary's picture be published as frontispiece.

Publication of Records of Charles E. Robinson. — Moved and
carried that the Executive Committee recommend to the Asso-
ciation that it accept with proper acknowledgment the generous
offer of Mr. Charles E. Robinson, viz.: The genealogical records
acquired by him covering a period of twenty-five years, and as
soon as possible have typewritten copy made for printing.

Foreign Investigation and Research. — Mr. Kimball, chair-
man of committee appointed at Plymouth, to consider ways and
means of such research, reported that owing to unusual circum-
stances, not as much progress as was hoped for had been made,
but the committee would report at the Portland meeting.

Personal thanks of all present given Mr. Barbour for so
early securing special rates and information regarding entertain-
ment and transportation.

Meeting adjourned subject to call of president.

ROWLAND ROBINSON

THE MAN AND HIS CENTURY

BY

Mrs. (Frances Robinson) Herbert Turrell

Regent of Orange Mountain Chapter, D. A. R. ; Chairman of Committee
of Education for Citizenship, Woman's Press Club of New York;
Member of the May Flower Society; Member of the
Society of Colonial Dames; Member of the Society
of Colonial Governors; Chairman of House
Committee, Gospel Settlement Associa-
tion, New York.

"Rhode Island's small, yet weais one star,
' Pluck wins ' not size is her device.
But when the country calls, look out !
This little hand grips like a vise."

ARLYLE, in his famous Btirns essay referring to
Scotland, said: "we hope there is a patriotism
founded on something better than prejudice; that
our country may be dear to us without injury to
our philosophy; that in loving justly and prizing
all other lands, we may prize justly and yet love
before all others our own stern motherland and
the venerable structure of social and moral life,
which mind has through long ages been building
up for us there; surely the roots, that have fixed themselves in
the verv core of man's being, may be so cultivated as to grow
up not into briars but into roses in the field of his life."

We of Scottish origin interpret the spirit of a Carlyle in our
intense love for our Xew England ancestry. In the twentieth
century perspective, these men and women were heroes and
martyrs; their shortcomings are forgotten, and we regard alone
the spirit of those who built for the centuries.

The question which has arisen in the minds of individuals
without a claim to New England pedigree, or without any

lo THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN POLK

patriotism — the key to our love — for that matter, as to the heroic
spirit of many of these early settlers, may be a pertinent one.
This question could not consistently apply, however, to the
Pilgrims.

There were too many hardships to face in the peril of the
sea, savage protest, and barren soil, but the love of adventure,
and freedom from old world restraints, no doubt inspired young
blood a generation or two later, when forests were cleared,
natives reconciled, or a certain tolerance and encouragement as-
sured by England to her colonies. Many shirked duties at
home; but very many more hoped for an opportunity for a fuller
expression of their powers and faiths than European nations
with their intrigues and cruel persecutions were countenancing.

As our knowledge and interest in psychological forces ad-
vances, we find a stimulus in the study of types. To the New
England American it is becoming of great interest, if not of vital
importance, to know the mental and moral stufif of which our
fathers were made, through traditions, records, but more espe-
cially through personal influence. Temperamental forces are
guides to a true estimate of the trend and ultimate fate of this
great nation so gloriously and patiently established. The ques-
tion of the day is: are these early New England forces still
dominant; are we assimilating into our national life, if not the
same physical, the same mental and spiritual fibre of the foun-
ders; have we the same mind in us as was in the men and women
who struggled for a principle?

In many respects this is a period of analysis; that was a
period of synthesis, and the patriotic men and women of to-day
do not feel so much the pride in being well born: this is man's
heritage, but are New England Americans living up to the
standards necessary to preserve the harmony of the nation ?

Among the early settlers of Rhode Island was Rowland
Robinson of Narragansett. Who was he? What li'as he? We,
his descendants, have a peculiar interest in the man, the home of
his birth, his parentage, the men and women with whom he had
daily intercourse. The political and religious influence of his
day we may know, but of his youth and early manhood we have,
in some respects, but meagre data with which to become familiar.

'Xove furthers knowledge," and by a careful analysis of his
century we learn what the boy and man ought to have been in

ROWLAND ROBINSON n

qualities of character to be transmitted to generations of men
and women following.

Rowland Robinson was born "at or near Long Blufif, Cum-
berland County, England, in 1654." says the Chronicler, and
"came to this country in 1675 at the age of twenty-one."

In the past two centuries so many national events have
changed the geographical face of England that many old towns
are lost and forgotten; among the towns to suffer extinction so
far as available records are concerned, is Long Blufif, possibly
now known as Long Town, on the northwest coast of England.

We know the county Cumberland which lays to the north-
west extremity of England, with Scotland, Northumberland,
West Moreland, Lancashire and seventy miles of Irish Sea
about it.

This territory, fifty miles wide and thirty miles long, with
seventy miles of sea coast, was not so extensive but that a good
live boy might know every mile of it, and often find his way to
the seaport towns to watch the incoming and outgoing vessels
freighted for West Indies and America. The seaports of Cum-
berland County, established by Oliver Cromwell, were the first
to embark in East India trade long before the Mersey and the
Clyde. It became a county in England in the reign of William
Rufus, who rebuilt Carlyle, which the Danes had destroyed.
Because of her traditional ftiterest, Cumberland County must
have been dear to the people, who always retained some of the
clannish fidelity of their Scottish ancestry, and a spirit of patriot-
ism was aroused in them by its growing importance in England's
commerce. This is attested by the fact that Cumberland County
is referred to in the annals of European nations in various rela-
tions; her disputed border was the haven for the persecuted of
every clime.

The home of Rowland was a veritable treasure house to an
imaginative boy, with its wealth of glowing scenery and historic
importance. Great rugged mountains of the Pennine chain ("the
backbone of England") with their gigantic, sterile peaks, reared
their noble heads into melting clouds, casting dark, mournful
shadows in deep valleys. Beautiful sylvan dales, fine clear lakes,
dainty verdant islands, rivers and cascades were among the
natural beauties. Over all hung the sky peculiar to the north,
which suggested to the untutored, primitive mind, gods, demons.

12 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

and their dwelling places in the clear deep heavens above them.
Here were laid the foundations of a religion upon which the
Christian religion with its dogmas of grim justice, eternal pun-
ishment, and incessant striving could easily be grafted.

The softer, saving religious development must wait until
the mind of the Occident is harmonized by the culture of the
Orient.

Then there were the Druid temples, a mystery even in the
seventeenth century, now understood in a worship of Baal as a
religion foreign to the north but peculiar to the Semetic race„
without doubt transplanted by a wandering tribe. In young
Rowland's day, this country was famous in verse and song, and
a romantic interest was aroused for travel and discovery.

There exists somewhere in old Aryan literature this proverb:
"We grow like what we contemplate." The history of the race
proves that the thought in the early mind is true.

What a boy young Rowland must have been — tall, strong
and manly, with a touch of vigor from the sea; with dignity
from his own towering mountain peaks; tender, with a touch of
poesy inspired by the sun-kissed slopes, with their deep mys-
terious shadows, and by the melting purple and gold of a north-
ern twilight which made the boy dreamy, and again questioning
to know the reason why in God's beautiful universe so much
hatred and cruelty entered into tlfe hearts of men. Temper?
Yes, and plenty of it — a torrent when provoked like the surge
of the foam from the rugged cliff; passionate, again gentle,
thoughtful and penitent. Amid such influences w^ere formed
characteristics to be transmitted to a new race of men and
women.

The romances of the coast people are thrilling stories of
fisher folk, whose conflicts are not with the elements alone, but
with 'gods, semi-gods and dragons; of heroic contests for supre-
macy of the sea, that put a daring into the blood and a heroism
into the soul which no mere savage could daunt. The spirit of
the old vikings still haunts the north, and we of a younger gen-
eration feel the blood mount and the sinews tighten when a slave
is scourged or the ignorant racked. It is in some such way we
must account for the courage of the Anglo-Celtic blood; the
spirit of adventure and conflict is in the very air they breath.

Homely as our reference is, it serves to prove the endurance

ROWLAND ROBINSON 13

of an idea in the northern mind: the first day of the week was
5et aside by law for the cleansing of linen; this was also in a wa}'
a religious duty with a penalty attached for its non-observance.
A first offence was subject of fine, and so strict was the law that
a death penalty was inflicted for a third offence. Cleanliness
was next to godliness, and no people on the face of the earth are
50 clean in mind and body as the northern races. How much
climate has to do with it, is of more than passing interest. Let
use remember that from these same hardy people came the beau-
tiful lyrics that gave a hymnal in which the religious fervor of
the seventeenth century expressed itself. It is obvious how old
laws become fixed in the mind of a people. The Sagas and
Eddas of an old heroic race, unlocked from the archives of Ice-
land, as the scholar interprets their meaning, will give to the
world many curious revelations. The history of the Aryan race
receives new light from these interpretations.

Ruskin tells us that the children descended from Goths,
when given blocks many centuries afterwards, instinctively built
Gothic.

The descendants of Rowland Robinson are sportsmen, the
smell of the salt spray and the freedom of the forest gives to them
the keenest enjoyment, and the blood in their veins leaps with
the joy of living.

Who were the parents of Rowland Robinson? We know
but little ; some devoted descendant may learn more than has been
so far discovered. Indications point to a probability that his
father was an estate man, if not of higher rank. The innate
nobility and refined taste of Rowland Robinson would testify to
"quality."

At this time of which we write there were three distinct
■classes represented — the nobles, estate men (often allied to the
nobles), and commoner or tenant class, subservient to the nobles.
Estate men owned large tracts of land which they often tilled
with their own hands, very much as our New England farmers
■do to-day.

"They were noted for their sturdy independence, positive
convictions, and attached to their homes and husbandry." (Enc.
Brittan.) They were certainly not of the tenantry, because of the
powder the Robinsons of the north of England seemed to have
possessed to dispose of land, and because of leadership. We do

14 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

not know whether Rowland's parents were rich or poor. Some
members of the family incline to believe they were rich. We do
not know on what they base their theory that young Robinson
brought property to America. The writer inclines to believe
he came with but little ; certainly if he ran away from home at the
age of twenty-one, which records show, unless rich in his own
right, we must suppose that he came empty handed. The father
of Rowland may have been able to give his children the advan-
tages of collegiate education, for during his life the great colleges
of Oxford and Cambridge, at their height, had added to their
curriculum religious courses under the most advanced leader-
ship, and the young men of England were eager to matriculate.
We are sure that Rowland's home was a cultivated one, and that
within the walls could be heard "Let us worship God." Refine-
ment of taste and cultivation of manners are natural instincts of
Rowland Robinson's descendants, and such instincts do not
happen, but are a result of many generations in which habits may
be formed. Plumbago and rich copper mines were fovmd in
Cumberland County. No doubt many estate men and nobles
were enriched thereby.

The mother of Rowland came from Barnstable, England.
We find that Isaac Robinson of Massachusetts, son of Rev. John
Robinson, was also of Barnstable, thus we immediately connect
the two families — that of Rowland and that of the immortal John
— as being near of kin, and possibly after his marriage Rowland's
father removed to Long Blufif. John Allen, the father of Mary
Allen, was of the same town.

As in sequence we can connect various inter-related families
in the same locality, no doubt frequent visits were exchanged by
young Mary of Barnstable and young Rowland of Long Blufif.
An attachment was formed in their youth to be consummated
by marriage in a new land when they shall have reached man-
hood and womanhood.

When Rowland was about ten years old, the great plague
ravaged London, followed by the burning of St. Paul's Cathedral.
This calamity was sounded in every port. How the whole pulse
of England must have throbbed! History relating to this awful
time tells us that many families fled to the north. What horrible
accounts of the death pits along the highways; of old men,
women and babes left to starve and rave in their death agonies,

ROWLAND ROBINSON 15

and of the immune thieves confiscating household goods. The
riot and general havoc could only have been equaled by the
revolution to follow a few years after. The whole of Europe
stood aghast. All of this must have reached young Rowland's
ears at a period when a young boy begins to look out into the
world about him. News traveled to the north by the way of
Cumberland County in that day.

When Rowland was thirteen, Milton, at the height of his
literary genius, gave to the world "Paradise Lost." Poor blind
Milton, fearless in protest, powerful in conviction, was he not
the poet of the people ? Persecuted, despised, hunted because
of his convictions, England had many men in the seventeenth
century of Milton's stamp.

Then came the Rye House plot, another cause of trembling.
John Bunyan, before Bedloe jail, was tinkering his pots and
pans and fearlessly disseminating his Baptist creed. It was
thought in the religious upheaval that nothing could happen
much worse. In fact, great history making events were tran-
spiring around the globe in the early boyhood of Rowland. Ves-
sels with traders, mendicants, and in fact with all sorts and kinds
of travelers, who were circulating the world's news, were entering
the ports of Cumberland. Newspapers at this period were
almost unknown. Ireland had ventured one, and Russia pub-
lished a news medium of some importance, but this was short
lived. Even in this period of Russian history the people must
not know too much.

When Rowland was a mere lad the dying words of Oliver
Cromwell (who was to the last a warm friend of New England)
resounded throughout the world: "O Lord, though I am a
miserable sinner I am in covenant with Thee. Thou hast made
me though very unwortliy an instrument to do Thy people good!
and go on, O Lord, to deliver them and make Thy name famous
throughout the world." As our sons to-day have heard the
great martyred McKinley in his death agony say. "It is God's
way ; Nearer My God to Thee," so the boy Rowland heard the
words of Cromwell as they sunk into the hearts of the English
speaking race, not to know their full significance until a fickle
people had reinstated a vicious King and fomented the Revolu-
tion of 1688.

"It was an age of intense earnestness and martyrdom that

i6 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

kindled a fire of enthusiasm." There existed "a rough earnest-
ness of character, a power of conscience and a dominating- sense
of moral accountability to God, that in England's Reformation
began with the princes and ended with the people; in Germany
began with the people and ended with the princes." The great
men whom the English Reformation produced culminated in
Oliver Cromwell.

We are told that his glory reached Asia and the descendants
of Abraham asked if he were the "servant of the king of kings."

A learned rabbi journeyed from Asia to London to study
his pedigree, thinking to discover his kinship to David. Through
a twentieth century perspective we see clearly the policy of
nations, and they appear like a game played by the kings with
the people for their puppets. If Cromwell's policy had been
followed in England, Louis XIV. would not have dared revoke
the edict of Nantes. We dwell with renewed interest upon this
fascinating period within the span of a young man's life.

Here we find a galaxy of preachers, unrivaled in any age for
•eloquence; philosophers and scholars, jurists and moralists (the
greatest since the day of Plato and Aristotle), poets and satyrists,
who must ever be classed with the immortals who gave to the
world of letters and jurisprudence models for centuries, if not for
all time, founded as they were on spiritual truths and human
imderstanding. Voltaire doubts if any period saw such illus-
trious men, and compares the age with that of Pericles in Greece,
Augustine of Rome and Medicis of Italy. The policy of Cath-
■erine De Medicis, Coligny and Richelieu were too firmly fixed in
the French mind to be easily erased. The Huguenots had be-
come submissive since August 24, 1572. Spain, dying, laughed
with Philip in derision, not disguising but revealing her moral
rottenness; Germany with Maximilian II. had uttered her pro-
test against the dictum of the Roman Catholic powers, and a cry
of vengeance against Mary Queen of Scots had fomented Eng-
land. History making events followed quick and fast after 1624,
when Richelieu was virtually King. "Everything for but noth-
ing by the people" had been the keynote of his policy. Then
the Holland, Swedish and English alliance against France led to
the greatest preparation for war by Louis XIV. since the

ROWLAND ROBINSON 17

Crusade. There have been some periods in the history of human
development when it would seem as though Satan himself stalked
through the earth and held absolute sway over rulers of men.

The sixteenth and seventeenth centuries certainly stand as
unique examples in this respect.

The year young Rowland was born began the terrible war
in Poland. Poland had defied Ivan the Terrible; for this Alexis
must revenge. Through the bloody days of Poland stands out
the heroic, noble, immortal — in the annals of Poland history —
John Sobieski.

As we look back from the present dark days of Russia we
see another period of terror in her history. Then as now the
Cossack was an important factor. In those days of Stenke
Razine — a Don Cossack — their depredations extended to the
shores of Persia; indeed, the Cossacks threatened the world.
Not until 1670 were they subdued. Moscow, surrounded by
foes on all sides, quickly recovered, though not as yet ready to
make trade treaties with the world.

We think our boys of to-day in troublous times, and that
.the twentieth century is making history fast, true as this is, we
must look to the seventeenth century for an introduction to
many of the great movements of which the twentieth century
will be the sequel. We gather up the threads of the great re-
ligious movements which tore the church into factions to see
them in this generation brought together into a bond of spiritual
brotherhood. Creeds are subservient and the Divine living
Christ is dominant. The inquisition that sounded the death
knell of Spain in that century, in the last century was crushed
as a fiendish relic of barbarism too terrible for modern civiliza-
tions. Maritime and trade relations then established are among
some of the vital issues of the present century.

Cumberland County, as we have shown, was of great mari-
time importance; it was the great internal highway to Scotland;
it was a country in which great religious movements were
fomented and fostered. "Martin Luther, who hungered after
truth," had said: "Let the scriptures be put into the hands of
everybody; let them interpret for themselves: let spiritual liberty
be revived as in apostolic days, and obey God rather than man."
And the great Reformation was born in the hearts of a people,
of transcendent importance to the human race, planting "Eng-

i8 THB ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

land with Puritans, Scotland with heroes and North America
with colonists," which created such men as "Knox, the aggres-
sive reformer; Calvin, the logician and oracle of the Protestant;
Crammer, the calm man of common sense and peaceful reform,
founder of the English church ; Latimer, who protested against
the Scarlet Mother and her trappings; Taylor, Baxter and Howe,
much greater in the history of civilization than the Renaissance
that dug for buried statues in the ruins of Greece and Italy, 'that
soften but do not save.' "

In the seventeenth century, no family was too poor to own
a Bible; everybody could read it who would. Whether the
parents of Rowland were the followers of Luther, Knox, Cram-
mer or Latimer, we cannot say, but later evidence points to an
affiliation with the Quakers.

Quakerism was first preached in 1648 by John Fox, son of
George Fox, a weaver of Drayton in Leicestershire, who was its
founder. Itinerant preachers promulgated the doctrine in
churches, barns and market places, we are told. Without a creed,
liturgy, sacrament or priesthood, how it must have been wel-
comed by God's children strugghng for freedom from religious
conflict and longing for spiritual peace. The Quakers passed
into Scotland, making conspicuous converts along the way.

Under the Commonwealth, the Puritans in England had a
period of rest, and few if any immigrants sought the colonies.
In 1662 the Act of Non-Conformity deprived the non-conforming
ministers of their living, and this act furnished the colonies with
some of their ablest clergymen and with many of their best men
in civil life.

The men independency forced to the front were remarkable"''^
men: "Strong of will, clear of eye, mighty through faith in their
principles, steeped in the commanding emotion and enthusiasm
of religion. They were principles that ennobled man, that as-
serted rights of the individual." This was the type of man Row-
land Robinson became and the type of men the Robinsons were
before him. we believe.

During the stringency of early times, many families to which
the Robinsons of Narragansett were allied sought freedom of
worship in America, although conditions in New England from
a surface point of view were not much more attractive than at
home, but to a student of colonial events there is to be found an

ROWLAND ROBINSON 19

undercurrent, strong, vital and persistent toward uninterrupted
progress in all things civic, religious and commercial.

For a long period England's wars had kept her too busy to
interfere in colonial affairs ; indeed, they were altogether neg-
lected. Left to themselves, much of the old world spirit not yet
outgrown appeared in the colonies. In the spirit of Jesuitism
the Baptists were persecuted.

In 1654 this persecution was terminated by Roger Williams.
About the same year the Quakers, led by John Fox, appeared in
Rhode Island. Their meetings were forbidden by the court of
Massachusetts, but their doctrine was spread to all parts of New
England, rooting itself deep in the hearts of the people. The
persecuted Quakers found refuge in Rhode Island as the Pil-
grims found refuge in Holland. Rhode Island, independent, de-
fended her position by saying that they had found "where the
Quakers are suffered to defend themselves freely, there they least
desired to come," and that, "they are likely to gain more fol-
lowers by their conceit of their patient suffering than by consent
to- their pernicious sayings." Several Quakers were put to death
in Massachusetts. A-'

In England persecutions were most severe. From 165 1-
1657, two thousand were imprisoned and many died. Massa-
chusetts imposed a penalty of one hundred pounds on any cap-
tain who landed a Quaker. Ears were cropped, tongues bored,
and one William Robinson — a Quaker — suffered a death penalty.
The writer may be pardoned this brief review, so familiar to a
student of New England history. It may serve to refresh the
memory and form a background to the picture of a young man
subjected, no doubt, to much of the persecution his parents were
called upon to endure; we have no reason to believe they were
exempt, but every reason to believe the Robinsons of England
were sympathizers or followers of either the Quakers or Baptists,
and the youth Rowland was, no doubt, of the faith of his parents,
and altogether a product of his times.

The 24th of June, 1675, was an eventful day in the history
of Rhode Island: this was the day of fasting and prayer prepara-
tory to a final contest with the Indians. The strong forts of the
Narragansetts defied all intrusion: Warwick and Providence had
been almost destroyed, and village after village had been l)urned
throughout Massachusetts by the Indians through the instiga-

20 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

tion of King Philip; these successes had made all tribes defiant;
many of the Christian converts became spies and martyrs; the
colonists feared to trust one of them. The outcome is too well
known to recapitulate.

Row'land Robinson landed onto the shores of New England
into the thick of this trouble. What induced him to try his for-
tune in a new land at such a time? — conditions were not better
than in England — they were worse.

We can see young Rowland at the age of twenty-one, rest-
less and impatient to reach America; there lived the little maid
of Barnstable who had stolen his boyish heart.

Again the chronicler tells us that "he ran away from his
parents and boarded a ship, embarking for the colonies." That
very ship, no doubt, brought to the Cumberland ports news ot
the pending Indian unprising. Whatever domestic trouble may
have arisen, of which we will hint later, we do not believe thai
this was the motive that prompted Rowland to leave his home.
Stories of the Indian massacres were to the English people,
nurses' tales, told to restrain immigration in some instances, in
others, to arouse co-operation at home. The boyish heart of
Rowland throbbed and ached to be by the side of the woman he
had loved all through his boyhood and manhood's early years.
Would the time never come?

Quick to resent interference, impatient at delay, he waited
and waited. At last his opportunity arrives, and foregoing .a
good father's and mother's blessing and reconciliation with a
meddlesome ( ?) brother, dares all and does all a young man can
do for a woman he loves.

Rowland apprenticed himself at once to a carpenter. If he
had brought money from England, he could have established
himself in an independent business, but he took the position
of an humble apprentice, and in a short time "was advanced
in business for his good behavior." The year following his
landing in America he married Mary Allen.

Mary's father was a rich farmer, and the prestige that his ^
influence as a man of afifairs gave, with his own upright character-<;
and industrious habits, advanced him greatly. In a few years
he became a man of wealth.

ROWLAND ROBINSON 21

Updike, in his history, records that the settlers of Xarragan-
sett were gentlemen of fine culture, of courtly manners, and in
hospitality in the New England colonies were not surpassed.

These families carefully educated, occupied a place of lead-
ership in colonial affairs, and in the affairs of the nation which
called for men of this character.

Mrs. Caroline Robinson, in her rare and valuable genealogy
of the Hazard family, gives the following anecdote of Rowland
Robinson:* "Among the slaves owned by Rowland Robinson
was one called Abigail, who grieved so bitterly for her son left
behind in Africa, that her master sent her back to her native land
to find the boy and bring him to her master's house and to a
state of bondage. The old man provided carefully for her com-
fortable sustenance on the voyage, giving the captain a list of
the things that he was to provide; these included cups and
saucers, plates, knives and forks, with a certain amount of bread
and meat and other necessaries, one bed with furniture for the
outward voyage, and two beds and furniture for the home voy-
age. Of course, Rowland Robinson's friends and neighbors all
laughed at his credulity in trusting his faithful slave, but as he
had a crusty temper, he was saved from an outward show of their
amusement, for it was a bold man w^ho oiTended him. A man
who had such faith in human nature must have safely been
trusted."

The story runs that Abigail returned with her son, who be-
came a slave in her master's household.

A short time before Rowland left England for America, he
quarreled with one of his brothers. Some ten or fifteen years
afterwards a son of this brother came to seek his future in New
England, and of course went to his uncle's house. The uncle
refused to see him, but gave him the best room in the house and
detailed a servant to the young man's own service. He stayed
several months, and then his Uncle Rowland bought for him an
estate in Mrginia, built a house, furnished it, and sent him with
the slave he had given him to take possession of the new home.

Rowland Robinson held many responsible positions under
both the Colonial and State governments, among others that of
Sheriff of Kings County. Many anecdotes exist of Rowland
Robinson's career, full of humor and pathos, charmingly told by

* By one authority this anecdote is attributed to Rowhind Robinson 2d.

22 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Thomas Hazard in his book, "Recollections of Olden Times."
The writer regrets they are out of print and most difhcult to
procure.

Rowland Robinson bought from the Indians large tracts of
land on which he built. The homestead in Point Judith, now
standing, was built partly by his ow-n hands. This land he greatly
improved. He also purchased Pettaquamscutt and other land,
where he built several houses. Westerly records for 1709 have
recorded a deed for 3000 acres of Wood River land purchased
by Rowland Robinson. The lands were sold in parts of 150 to
300 acres each. Portions of his Pettaquamscutt and Point
Judith estate have descended from father to children until within
a very few years, if not to the present day.

The records tell us that the gentlewoman, Mary Allen, whom
our Rowland so loved, was born in 1654 in Barnstable, England,
and died at the age of fifty (1706). Rowland died at the age of
sixty-two (1716). Both were buried in the northwest corner of
the Narragansett Quaker burying lot in Kingston, now known
as South Kingston.

Thus closes the record. Their folded lives redolent with the
perfume of a beautiful romance. The little boy and girl together
in their English home; the youth and maid wandering through
the fields on sunny, golden days, talking of the troublous times
and recounting fabulous tales of the Druid orgies, Roman con-
quests and northern invasion, shrinking with fear when a refugee
would pass them on the highways, or listening eagerly to a Pil-
grim's gossip. Mary's immigration to America, young Row-
land's broken heart; as he neared the year of emancipation, his
discontent and impatience; his fear for the colonists, as their
lives were from time to time imperiled; his escape to America,
where he could face the perils with her and for her — his Mary.

The little Quakeress was the reward for a courageous young
manhood, and together they bequeath a noble name — the finest
heritage to many generations of men and women yet unborn.
With no wealth but his own brave, loyal heart and willing hands,
he landed on these New England shores for freedom's sake — and
for Mary — and became a self -made man.

We, his descendants, "strike anew that deep mysterious
chord of human nature which once responded to a dark, earnest,
wondering age, and which lives in us, too; and will forever live,

DEPUTY GOVERNOR ROBINSON 23

though silent now, or vibrating witli far other notes, and to far
different issues."

DEPUTY GOVERNOR WILLIAM ROBINSON

BY

Mrs. Caroline E. Robinson

William Robinson was born January 26, 1693; he died
September 19, 175 1. He was the son of Rowland and Mary
(Allen) Robinson, and great-grandson of Governor Henry Bull.
His mother was a woman distinguished for her intelligence, firm-
ness and well-rounded beauty of character. With these traits,
she richly endowed her children. Governor William Robinson
was a man of great energy and executive ability, his personal
appearance corresponding with his character, being a tall, strong,
well-developed man, of a fair and ruddy complexion. The gen-
erosity of his character is shown in the fact that as executor of
his father's will, he went before the Town Council and declared
that his father had expressed a wish before he died to give to two
of his granddaughters, Mary and Sarah Robinson, orphan daugh-
ters of his son John, a farm of 150 acres each. By consent of the
Town Council, William Robinson conveyed said land to his two
nieces. This was land that had come to him as a residuary lega-
tee, taken entirely from his own share of his father's estate. Also
the four orphan nieces of his brother John were brought up in his
own family. His second wife had three young children by her
first husband — these helped to swell the number of his household,
making twenty children who were brought up in the old mansion.
Himself and wife, with twenty children and nineteen slaves, made
a household of forty-one persons. The plantation was like a
small village, with its barns, stables, store quarters and other out-
buildings. To the considerable estate left to him by his father
he added largely by purchase. In 1734. Jeremiah Wilson sold
him for one thousand two hundred pounds, 350 acres; 1737,
Robert Hannah for four thousand pounds, "one messuage or
tenement," with 260 acres; 1737, George Mumford for four thou-
sand five hundred pounds, sold him 200 acres on Point Judith;
1739, Samuel Allen, Jr. of Woodbridge, Middlesex County, N. J.,
for one thousand pounds sold to him "all that messuage or tene-

24 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

ment, together with houses, outhouses, buildings, barns, gardens,
orchards," etc., containing 80 acres, bounded north by County
road, east by Sanatucket mill, and lying near to a certain place
called Sugar Loaf Hill. (This was the western boundary of his
home farm.) In 1741, Joseph Mumford for. six thousand pounds
sold him 160 acres; 1742, William Brenton and wife Alice, for
two thousand pounds, sold him 630 acres in Point Judith. In
1746, for eight thousand pounds, 230 acres more. It must be
remembered that the money paid for the land was in depreciated
currency. The sales will, however, give the exact amount, which
even then will show large sums that he expended in land. There
being no banker, the only investments possible in those days
seems to have been in land. The products of his dairy and large
farms (all under cultivation) were exported. His Point Judith
farms were used in part for raising horses — the celebrated Nar-
ragansett pacers. His inventory shows eleven breeding mares
with one stallion. These horses were from stock imported by
himself.

William Robinson's home was on what is now known as
Shadow Farm, the old mansion having been taken down in 1882.
This home was built before 1716 by his father, as the inventory
of his estate at that date mentions certain articles in the "old
house," flock, beds and bedding, pewter plates and pewter plat-
ters, galley pots, casseroles (which were called cassions) and
other articles which seems to prove that the "old house" was the
quarters for the slaves. This "old house" was near the head of
Pettaquamscutt Cove, not far from the Manor House, which de-
scended from father to son for five generations, when it was sold
in 1874 to Mr. Samuel Strang of New York. The inventory of
Governor Robinson's estate shows not only the amount of his
wealth and the extent of his dairy, but even the size of his house,
that was none too large for his numerous household. The
rooms — guest room (it was 20 feet square), six more bedrooms,
dining room (equally large), store bedroom, northeast bedroom,
store closet, kitchen, milk room, cheese room, kitchen closet,
dining room, bedroom — these were all on the first floor with cor-
responding rooms above and several finished rooms in the attic.
The rooms were all large; even the basement was not small.
The storeroom bedroom had a fireplace, and it was here that was
placed the trundle bed and cradle which tells its own story. It

THE NARRAGANSUTT PACER 25 ■

was "Mother's room." The size of the dairy can be easily inferred
from the fact that there were 4060 pounds of cheese on hand at
the time of his death in September, the product of the summer;
this was valued at five hundred and fifty-eight pounds. In 175 1
a Spanish mill was valued at two pounds six shillings.

Governor Robinson's public life covered a period of twenty-
four years, and during all this time he was actively engaged in
business of the colony. He was Deputy in 1724, 1725. 1726,
1727, 1728, 1734, 1735, 1736, 1741, 1748. Speaker of the House
1735- ^7Z^, 1741. 1742. Deputy Governor 1745, 1746, 1747,
1748.

It goes without saying that the duties attending upon these
offices were well and faithfully performed, and that he was a
man trusted and appreciated not only by his townspeople, but bv
the colony.

He married about 1718, Martha, daughter of John and
Sarah (Wilson) Potter, and widow of James Allen, a cousin of
Governor Robinson. She had five children, and died November,
1725. She, born December 20, 1692. He married secondly
Abigail, daughter of William and Abigail (Remington) Gardiner,
and widow of Caleb Hazard. She, born 1700 and died May 22,
1772. They were married March 20. I774r' They had eight 1^
children, the eldest son. Christopher, born December 31, 1727;
he married November 30, 1752, Ruhamah, daughter of Col.
Christopher and Elizabeth (Hill) Champlin.

THE NARRAGANSETT PACER

BY

Mrs. Herbert Turrell

" One sunshiny afternoon there rode into the great gate of Manhattoes,
two lean and hungry looking Yankees, mounted on Narragansett Pacers."

— Knickerbocker, Washington Irving.

In importing horses into Rhode Island, William Robinson
displayed a keen insight into not his own needs alone, but into
what would prove to be an absolute necessity with the growth
of the State. When we realize the limitations of the colonists
in transportation facilities and farm equipment, we marvel at the

26 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

results accomplished. The products of William Robinson's farm
must have been considerable, for inventories show trade relations
with Spain to no small extent. The supervision of the farm was
conducted by himself, and as we know this farm contained many-
acres, he must have been puzzled how to give it personal atten-
tion. As Deputy Governor, his duties were most exacting in
oflficial work, and again, the seat of government was a long,
weary journey from home, when traveled in slow stages. In
importing horses. Governor Robinson anticipated his own need
and accomplished what would have been subsequently done by
another.

The native Indian horse was no doubt in use, as were also
a few horses driven into the colonies from Canada, either of a
wild breed or of French import. Facilities for transporting
horses to any great extent did not exist subsequent to the days
of Governor William Robinson, although it is reasonable to sup-
pose some breed of horse was brought into the country; how-
ever, the writer can find no record relating to it.

The pacer horse, such as Governor William Robinson im-
ported, was of Arabian origin, dating back into the earliest Span-
ish history. In the English records, the Spanish pacer figures
more conspicuously than any other breed of horse. It is stated
that William the Conqueror rode a pacer and that Queen Eliza-
beth's favorite "pillion" was a Spanish pacer. (Enc. Britt.)

With the introduction of heavy armor into England a
change was made in the breed of horse used. The pacer was
too delicate to carry a man heavily accoutred; the breed was
mixed, developing a horse with the quick step of the pacer and
the tough, heavy build of the horse in the north of France.
Eventually the horse commonly known as "hack" was devel-
oped.

For a time the pacer was lightly regarded in England, ex-
cept for the ladies, and when carriages were introduced the pacer
was discarded almost entirely for saddle work. The English
used the pacer, however, to perfect the delicacy and symmetry of
a coarser breed. If England exported horses to the New Eng-
land colonies, the records are not easily available.

Upon the introduction of gunpowder into England, the
pacer comes to the front again, and we find it the favorite horse.
The breed at this time reaches its highest stage of development.

I

THB NARRAGANSBTT PACER 27

The pacer horse has always been an aristocrat of the finest
type, and wherever found, "blood tells."

The history of the pacer horse in its southern home as the
darling of Moor and Spaniard, to the Narragansett pacer in its
Rhode Island home is like a charming romance. We see it the
pet of the court, the joy of the turf and the servant and messenger
of the colonist. The saying, "ride a pacer to a jolly death,"
which has come to us from Spanish literature, expresses the use
and the abuse to which this "best friend" has been subjected.

It was about the year 1735 that Governor William Robinson
imported the pacer to America. The Point Judith farms were
used in part for raising these horses. His inventory shows
eleven breeding mares with one stallion. The farm is now known
as "Shadow- Farm," and was the one bought by Samuel Strang
in 1874. The original home was built in 1716.

As we have seen, the activity of Governor William Robinson
demanded rapid transit ; he could appreciate the value of a horse,
sw'ift of motion, small in bulk, and of good spirit without feeling
great fatigue. The pacer was very swift and readily took the ford,
even wdiere swollen by great storms.

It is surprising that the origin of the Narragansett pacer
was so little known. To Fenimore Cooper, it was a "freak of
nature." In his "Leather Stocking," his heroines ride Narra-
gansett pacers, which he proceeds to account for in a footnote
to this effect: "The origin of the Narragansett pacer is unknown,
but it is probably a cross between a native horse of Narragansett
and an Indian pony." A freak of nature, he called it.

It is evident from the suggestion of Cooper that the Narra-
gansett pacer played no small part in the history of the colonies.
The call to arms came, and the hearts of our forefathers were
thrilled with the hope of independence, and rapid communication
from colony to colony and State to State aroused the patriot to
action. No electric wires, no railroads; stage coaches and run-
ners, slow at the best, are some of the means recorded whereby
the colonies were aroused.

The "lean, hungry-looking Yankee," mounted on a Narra-
gansett pacer, entered not only the gates of IManhattoes, but into
Connecticut, Massachusetts, New^ Hampshire, Vermont, into
town after town, arousing Americans to protest against the in-
justice of England. With his strong heart and willing feet,

28 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

through forest and brake, by shore and mountain, our beautiful
pacer sped to do his part in God's providence for a great nation
that was to be.

It is not unreasonable to suppose that Paul Revere, in his
historic ride, rode a Narragansett pacer, for through the close
relation of many families of Rhode Island and Massachusetts, the
fame of the pacer must have been conveyed. A matter of such
importance must have occasioned comment. In paying our
tribute to men, let us pay a slight tribute of praise to the Narra-
gansett pacer. Through hostilities, savage tribes and many
hardships we follow him, ever willing, ever faithful to serve his
master. A man who owns a pacer of American pedigree, al-
though like the "Morgan" horse it is almost extinct, should
decorate him with the bufif and the blue, for to him no small
honor is due.

GENEALOGY OF THE ROBINSON FAMILY
OF NARRAGANSETT, R. I.

BY

Mrs. Herbert Tukrell
Rowland Robinson's* children were as follows:

1. John, born in 1677; married Mary Hazard in 1703; died
in 171 1, aged 34 years. His wife died in 1722, aged 46 years.
He left four daughters, all of whom were brought up in Gov.
William Robinson's family. One of them married a Hazard,
and was the mother of one of the Stephen Hazards. Another
married a Babcock.

2. Joseph, born in 1679; ^^i^d in infancy.

3. Elizabeth, born in 1680; married William Brown in 1698.
She died in 1745, aged 64 years. Mr. Brown died in 1749, aged
y^ years. They left children, Thomas Brown and others.

4. Mary, born in 1683; married George Mumford in 1703.

* In 1845 the remains of Rowland Robinson were removed from Friends Burying Ground, Tower
Hill, South Kingston, to the Wakefield Cemetery, by Atmore Robinson, a lineal descendant of his in
the fifth degree.

\

ROBINSON FAMILY Of NARRAGANSETT 29

She died in 1707, aged 21, years. Mr. Mumford died in 1745,
aged 66 years. Tliey left children, James among others.

5. Sarah, born in 1685; married Rufus Barton in 1712. She
died in 1760, aged 76 years. Mr. Barton died in 1743, aged 70
years. They left children, Rowland, Rufus and others.

6. Rowland, born June 16, 1688; died in 1693, aged 5 years.

7. ]\Iercy, born in 1690; married Col. John Potter in 1714.
She died in 1762. aged /2 years. Col. Potter died in 1739, aged
50 years. They left children.

8. William, born in 1693; married Martha Potter in 1717.
She died in 1725, aged t,t, years. He married his second wife,
Mrs. Abigail G. Hazard — widow of Caleb Hazard and daughter
of William Gardiner — in 1727 or 1728. William Robinson died
in 1 75 1, aged 58 years. His second wife died in 1773, aged 76
years.

Note — The following are the children of John, son of Row-
land :

1. Mary, born in 1705; married Stephen C. Hazard in 1727.
She died in 1756, aged 51 years. Mr. Hazard died in 1750, aged
47 years. They left children.

2. Rowland, born in 1706; died in infancy.

3. Sarah, born in 1707; married Ichabod Potter, Jr., Jan. 16,
1722. She died in 1744, aged T,y years. Mr. Potter died in 1755,
aged 55 years. They left children.

4. Ruth, born in 1709; married Joseph Underwood in 1728.
She died in 1758, aged 49 years. Mr. Underwood died in 1763,
aged 58 years. They left children.

The children of Gov. William Robinson — eighth son of
Rowland — by his first wife, Martha Potter, were:

I. Rowland, born in 17 19; married Anstis Gardiner in 1741.
"December 3, 1741, the bans being duly published in the church
of St. Paul's, Narragansett, Rowland Robinson, son of William,
was married to Anstis Gardiner, daughter of John Gardiner, by
the Rev. Dr. McSparran." (Updike's History of the Narragan-
sett Church, page 188.) j\Ir. Robinson died in 1806, aged 87
years. Mr5 Robinson died in 1785, aged 68 years. The chil-
dren of Rowland Robinson were: i. Hannah, born in 1746;
married Peter Simons. Mrs. Simons died in 1773. 2. Mary,
born in 1752; died in 1777. 3. William R., born in 1759: mar-
ried Ann Scott, 1784; died 1804, aged 45 years. Mrs. Robinson

so THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

afterward married Dr. John Mann and died in 1839, aged 76
years, without issue.

2. John, born in 1721; died in 1739.

3. Margaret, born in 1722; married William Mumford in
1745. She died in 1768, aged 46 years. Mr. Mumford died in
1790, aged 69 years. They left children.

4. Elizabeth, born in 1724; married Thomas Hazard in
1745. She died in 1804, aged 79 years. Mr. Hazard died at his
homestead in South Kingstown in 1795, aged 76 years, and was
buried in the Friends old burying ground in South Kingstown.

5. Martha, born in 1725; married Latham Clarke in 1747.
She died in 1768. Mr. Clarke died in 1776, aged 60 years. They
left children: Martha, who was the second wife of John Hazard
of North Kingstown, and a woman of strong intellect and ster-
ling character; Samuel; Louis Latham; Hannah, born April 19,
1760. Hannah married Peleg Gardiner — his second wife — Oct.
26, 1791. Her children were: Martha Clarke, born Sept. 10,
1795, who married Rowland F. Gardiner and died Dec. 19, 1837;
Hannah Robinson, born June 3, 1798, married Robert Morey
and died June 3. 1869; Mary Ann, born Nov. 15, 1800, who mar-
ried Timothy Clarke Collins and died in October, i860. The
family now have Rowland Robinson's family Bible, containing
among many other entries in his own handwriting, the following:
"William Robinson, died 19th Sept., 1751, aged 57 years. 7
months, 27 days;" "Martha, wife of William, died November.
1725;" "My daughter. Hannah Robinson, departed this life the
30th October, 1773. aged 27 years. 5 months, 9 days (Hannah
Gardiner Morey, daughter of Robert Morey. has now in her pos-
session four silver spoons that belonged to the 'unfortunate
Hannah Robinson') ;" "Anstis Gardiner, w'ife of Rowland Robin-
son, died November 24th, 1773;" "Mary, my daughter, died April
5th, 1777. aged 25 years, i month, 21 days;" "William, my son,
died 29th October, 1804, aged 45 years;" "My beloved brother
John Robinson, died October 5, 1739."

6. Christopher — the first child of Gov. William Robinson by
his second wife — born in 1728; married Rhuhama Champlin
Nov. 30, 1752; died in 1807, aged 79 years. Mrs. Robinson died
in 1783, aged 52 years. Their children were: i. Abigail, born
1754; married Stephen Potter 1772; died 1803, aged 49 years.

.2. Christopher Champlin, born 1756; married Elizabeth Anthony,

ROBINSON FAMILY OF NARRAGANSBTT

I

Dec. 30, 1790; died 1841, aged 87 years. Mrs. Robinson died in
1849, aged 79 years. The children of Christopher C. and EHza-
beth Robinson were: (a) George C, born 1791; married Mary
Niles Potter 1812; died at Canton, East Indies, 1827, aged 36
years. Mrs. Robinson died in 1870, aged 75 years, 10 months
and 18 days, (b) Thurston, born 1793; married Sarah Perry
1823; died 1875, aged 82 years. Mrs. Robinson died 1874, aged
^5 years. (c) Mary, born 1794; married John Brown 1815; died
1866, aged 72 years. Mr. Brown died 1834, aged 42 years; left
children, (d) Harriet, born 1795; died 1796, aged 21 days, (e)
Rhuhama C, born 1797; married John Robinson 1821; died 1869,
aged 71 years. Mr. Robinson died in 1841, aged 47 years; no
children, (f) Elizabeth, born 1799; died 1799, aged 3 months
and 5 days, (g) Rodman G., born 1800; died 1841, unmarried,
(h) Elizabeth A., born 1801; married William B. Robinson 1830;
■died 1876. (i) Sally, born 1803; died 1816. (j) Elisha A., born
1804; married Mary Hull 1837. (k) Harriet, born 1807; mar-
ried William B. Robinson — his second wife; died 1828. Mr.
Robinson died 1875. (U Frances Wanton, born 1809; died
December, 1876; married Thomas Hazard Watson, son of Wal-
ter. The children of Thomas H. and Frances W. Watson were:
Walter Scott, George Robinson, Caroline, Elizabeth and Thomas
H. (m) Christopher, born 1810. (n) Albert, born 1812; mar-
ried Hannah Pierce 1844; died 1856, aged 44 years. The chil-
dren of Albert and Hannah Robinson were Albert C, born 1854,
and George P., born 1856. (o) William H. Robinson, born
1814; married Eliza Hazard, 1841.

7. William — seventh child of Gov. William Robinson —
torn 1729; married Hannah Brown 1752; died 1785, aged 56
years. Mrs. Robinson died in 1791, aged 60 years. The chil-
dren of William and Hannah Robinson were: i. Philip Robin-
son, born 1754; married Elizabeth Boynton 1779: died 1799,
aged 45 years. Mrs. Robinson died in 1785, aged 26 years. They
liad one child, Samuel Boynton Robinson, born 1785; died 1794,
-aged 9 years. 2. Hannah, born 1756; married George Brown
1774; died 1823, aged 67 years. Lieut. -Gov. George Brown died
in 1836, aged 80 years. They left a large family of children,
William, George, John and several daughters, one of whom mar-
ried Rowse Babcock of Westerly.

8. Thomas — eighth child of Gov. William Robinson —

32 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

born 1730; married Sarah Richardson 1752; died 18 17, aged 87
years. Mrs. Robinson died in 1817, aged 84 years.

9. Abigail, born in 1732; married John Wanton 1751; died
1754, aged 22 years. Mr. Wanton died in 1793, aged 65 years.
They had only one child, which was buried in the same grave
with the mother.

10. Sylvester, born in 1734; married Alice Perry in 1756;
died in 1809, aged 75 years. Mrs. Robinson died in 1787, aged
50 years.

11. Mary, born in 1736; married John Dockray in 1756;
died in 1776, aged 40 years. Mr. Dockray died in 1787, aged
56 years. Their children were: i. John Bigelow. 2. James
Dockray. John Bigelow Dockray married a daughter of Wil-
liam Congdon, and was the father of John, Nancy and Mary.
The last named John Dockray married Mercy Peckham. Their
children were: John, William, James and Mary — all now living.
Nancy married William Brown, a son of Gov. George Brown.
Their children were: Mary, Nancy, John, Hannah, Edward and
Susan.

12. James, born 1738; married Nancy Rodman.

13. John, born 1742; married Sarah Peckham 1761; died
1801. Mrs Robinson died in 1775.

The children of Thomas Robinson — eighth child of Gov.
William Robinson — were:

I. William T., born 1754; married Sarah, daughter of Sam-
uel Franklin of New York City; died 1835, aged 81 years. Mrs.
Robinson died in 1811, aged 52 years.

The children of William T. and Sarah Robinson were: i.
Esther, born in 1782; married Jonas Minturn of New York.

The children of Jonas and Esther Minturn were: (a) Eliza-
beth, born 1801; died young, (b) William, born 1802; drowned
in a sailboat near New York, Sept. 21, 1821. (c) Rowland, born
1804; died 1839, unmarried, (d) Caroline, born 1806; married
David Prescott Hall of New York. Their children were: John
Mumford, Rowland Minturn, Caroline Minturn, Elizabeth Pres-
cott, Frances Ann and David Prescott. David Prescott Hall
married Florence Howe, daughter of Dr. Samuel G. Howe of
Boston, and his children — Samuel Prescott, Caroline Minturn
and Henry Marion, (e) Thomas, born 1808; died unmarried,
aged about 70 years, (f) Lloyd, deceased, born 1810; married

ROBINSON FAMILY OF NARRAGANSETT 33

Julia Randolph of Newport, R. I.; second wife, Anne K. Robin-
son, of Ferrisburgh, Yt., whose children are named elsewhere,
(g) Frances, born 1812; married Thomas R. Hazard of Vaucluse,
R. I. Their children were: Mary, died aged 2y months; Frances,
Gertrude, Anna — the last three named all died in early woman-
hood — Esther, who married Dr. E. J. Dunning of New York,
and Barclay, born in 1852. (h) Niobe, married Duncan Fer-
guson of New York; had one child, Lucy, who died, aged 2
years; married, second. Ward H. Blackler of New York, whose
children were: Mary — who married Theodore Wright of Phila-
delphia, and has one child — Minturn, Gertrude, who died
in early womanhood, and Edith Belliden. (i) Jonas, born 1819;
married Abby West of Bristol, R. I. Their children were: Row-
land, Mary — married Charles Potter of Newport, R. I., and his
children, Charles, Mary Minturn and Aracelia — Thomas, Gert-
rude — married Capt. George Sanford, U.S.A., and has one
daughter, Margaret — Madeline and James, (j) Agatha, married
Edward Mayer of Vienna, Austria, and has children John, Lloyd
and William, (k) Gertrude, married W^illiam H. Newman of
New York City. All the above named daughters of Jonas and
Esther Robinson Minturn are deceased.

2. Thomas — second child of William T. and Sarah Robin-
son — attached himself to the fortunes of Aaron Burr and died
in Paris in early manhood, unmarried.

3. Samuel, unmarried; lost in a sailboat near New York
Sept. 21, 1815.

4. Sarah, married Joseph S. Coates of Philadelphia. Their
children were: Joseph H. and Sarah R. Coates. Joseph H.
married, first, Elizabeth W. Horner, who died without children;
second, Sarah Ann Wisner. Their children were: Alma W.,
Ellen W., Arthur R. and Joseph S. Coates. Sarah R. Coates
married Joshua Toomer of Charleston, S. C, and has one child.
Mary Ann.

5. ]\Iary, married William Hunter, L^nited States Minister to
Brazil. Their children were (a) William, married Sally Hoff-
man, daughter of General Smith of Georgetown, D. C. The
children of William and Sally H. Hunter were: W' alter. Mary —
married Richard H. Jones of Cumberland, Md. — Blanche, Irene,
William and Godfrey, (b) Eliza, married James Birckhead of
Rio Janeiro, Brazil. Their children were William and Katherine.

34 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

William Birckhead married Sarah King of Newport, R. I. and
has children — James, Philip and Hugh, (c) Thomas R., mar-
ried Mrs. Frances Wetmore Taylor of New York City. Their
children are: William, Elizabeth, Augusta, Mary and Charles,
(d) Mary, married Captain Piers of the Royal Navy of Great
Britain, (e) Charles, Commander U. S. Navy, married Miss
Rotch of New Bedford. Their children are: Catherine — married
Thomas Dunn of Newport, R. I. — Caroline, Mary — married
Walter Langdon Kane of New York — Anna Falconet, (f)
Catherine, married William Greenway of Rio Janeiro, Brazil,
whose son was Charles, (g) John, died in youth.

6. Abby — daughter of William T. and Sarah Robinson —
married Mr. Pierce; both lost at sea.

7. Franklin, married and died in Alabama, leaving Mary,
who died while at school in Newport, R. I., and other children.

8. Nancy, married John Toulmin of Mobile, Ala., and left
one child, Agatha.

9. Rowland, married and settled in Ohio, where he died
highly respected, leaving several children.

10. Eliza, died in early womanhood, unmarried.

11. William, died in mature manhood, unmarried.

12. Emma, married John Grimshaw; died 1878. They had
a daughter, Emma, who married Benjamin Haviland and had
children — William Robinson, Gertrude, Ellen and Frances.

2. Thomas — second son of Thomas Robinson, the eighth
son of Governor William — born 1756; died young.

3. Mary, born 1757; married John Morton of Philadelphia,
1793; died in Philadelphia 1829. Mr. Morton died in Philadel-
phia 1828. Their children were: Esther, born 1797; Robert,
born 1801 ; died unmarried 1848. Esther married Daniel B.
Smith 1824. The children of Daniel B. and Esther Smith were:
Benjamin R., born 1825; John, born 1828, died 1836; Mary, born
1830, died 1854. Benjamin R Smith married Esther F. Whar-
ton, 1859. Their children are: Robert Morton, born i860, died
1864; William Wharton, born 1861 ; Anna Wharton, born 1864;
Esther Morton, born 1865; Deborah Fisher, born 1869, died
1877; Edward Wanton, born 1875. Benjamin R. Smith in-
herited and now occupies as a summer residence the old home-
stead of his maternal ancestors in Newport, R. I.

4. Abigail, born 1760; died at an advanced age, unmarried.

ROBINSON FAMILY OP NARRAGANSBTT 35

5. Thomas Richardson, born 1761; married Jemima Fish
1783; died 1851, aged 90 years. Airs. Robinson died in 1846,
aged 85 years. They left children: i. Abigail, married Nathan
C. Hoag. Their children were: Rachael, married, no children;
Amy, unmarried: Thomas, married Huldah Case; Huldah, mar-
ried Louis Estis: Jane, married Henry Miles; Joseph, Nathan,
died young : Alary, married Daniel Clark. 2. Rowland T., mar-
ried Rachel Gilpin of New York. Their children were: (a)
Thomas R., married Charlotte Satterly and had children, Wil-
liam G. and Sarah R., who married William Harman. (b) George
G. (c) Anne K., married Lloyd Alinturn. Their children were:
Rowland R., Agatha Barclay — married William R. Haviland —
and Frances, (d) Rowland E., married Anna Stevens.

6. Rowland, born 1763; lost at sea in early manhood; un-
married.

7. Joseph Jacobs, born 1765: died at an advanced age, un-
married.

8. Amy, born 1768; married Robert Bowne of New York.
Their children were: George, who died unmarried, and Rowland,
who left a daughter.

The children of Sylvester Robinson, son of Gov. William
Robinson, were:

— ' I. James, born 1756; married Alary Attmore of Philadel-
phia in 1781 : died 1841, aged 85 years. Airs. Robinson died
1856, aged 86 years.

2. Mary, born 1763; married Jonathan N. Hassard 1788;
died 1837, aged 74 years. Air. Hassard died 1802 in the West
Indies, aged 42 years. He left children, Stephen, James, Alice,
Jonathan N., Robinson and Alary, and numerous grandchildren.

3. Abigail, born 1769; married Thomas H. Hazard 1789;
died 18 18, aged 49 years. Air. Hazard died 1823, aged 61 years,
and left children.

The children of James Robinson — ninth child of Gov. Wil-
liam Robinson — were:

1. Abigail, l^orn 1768; married John Robinson 1794: died
1805, aged 37 years. Air. Robinson died in 1831, aged 64 \cars;
left children.

2. Ruth, born 1769; was never married: died in 1839, aged
70 years.

3. Alary, born 1771; married John Bowers 1792; died 1826,

36 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

aged 55 years. Mr. Bowers died 1819, aged 53 years; left chil-
dren.

4. Ann, born 1772; died 1790. aged 17 years.

5. James, born 1774; died 1781, aged 7 years.

The children of John Robinson — the tenth and youngest
child of Gov. William Robinson — were:

1. Benjamin, born 1763; married Elizabeth Brown, daugh-
ter of Gov. George Brown, 1801 ; died 1830, aged 66 years. Mrs.
Robinson died in 1855, aged 86 years.

2. Sarah, born in 1764; married John Taber 1789; died 1837,
aged yT, years. Mr. Taber died in 1820, aged 62 years; they
left children.

3. William, born 1766; married.

4. John J., born 1767; married Abigail Robinson 1794; died
1831, aged 64 years. Mrs. Robinson died in 1805, aged 39 years.

5. Sylvester, born 1769; married; died in 1837, aged 68
years.

6. Thomas, born 1771; died 1786, aged 14 years.

George C. — third child of Christopher, son of Gov. William
Robinson — born 1758; died 1780, aged 22 years. He was taken
prisoner in the privateer "Revenge" in 1778, carried into New
York and placed on board the prison-ship "Jersey" at the Walla-
bout, Long Island, N. Y., where he died with the prison fever,
and was buried at that place.

4. Elizabeth — fourth child of Christopher — born 1760; mar-
ried Mumford Hazard, son of Simeon, 1786; died 1822, aged 62
years. Mr. Hazard died in 181 1, aged 55 years. They left no
children.

5. William C, born 1763; married Frances Wanton 1794;
died 1803, aged 40 years. Mrs. Robinson died in 1816, aged 43
years.

6. Jesse, born 1764; married Hannah T. Sands 1789; died
1808, aged 44 years. Mrs. Robinson died in 1848, aged 82 years.

7. Robert, born 1765; married Sarah Congdon 1795. She
died in 1802, aged 26 years. Married Ann Deblois 1807. Mr.
Robinson died in 1831. aged 66 years. Mrs. Robinson, his sec-
ond wife, died in 1850, aged 68 years.

8. Hannah, born 1769; married John Perry 1788; died 1849,
aged 80 years. Mr. Perry died in 1834, aged 69 years. Left
children: Robinson Perry of Wakefield, John G. Perry of Kings-

ROBINSON FAMILY OF NARRAGANSETT

0/

ton, Oliver Hazard of Peace Dale, aiicl several other sons and
daughters.

■9. Matthew, born 1772; married Mary S. Potter 1797. She
died in 1801, aged 24 years. Married Mary Potter in 1802. Air.
Robinson died in 1821, aged 49 years. Mrs. Robinson, second
wife, died in 1836, aged 54 years.

The children of William C. — fifth child of Christopher and
grandson of Gov. William Robinson — were:

1. Edward Wanton, born 1797; died 1818, aged 21 years.

2. Stephen Ayrault, born 1799; married Sarah H. Potter
1822, at Wakefield, R. I.; died in South Kingstown, April 7,
1877, aged 78 years.

3. Francis W., born 1800; died 1802, aged 2 years.

4. George C, born 1802; died 1820, aged 18 years.

5. William C, born 1803; married Abby B. Shaw 1827; died
1871. aged 67 years.

The children of Jesse — sixth child of Christopher and grand-
son of Gov. William Robinson — were:

1. Robert, born 1790; died 1809, aged 19 years. Mr. Rob-
inson was killed by falling from the masthead of the ship "Reso-
Ivition" of Newport, R. I., while in the harbor of Charleston,
S. C.

2. William J., born 1792; married Rebecca x\nn Gould 1822;
died 1852, aged 60 years, without issue. His widow married in
1859, Isaac Jacques of Elizabeth, N. J.

3. Matthew, born 1794; married Mary D. Shields 1828;
died 1833, aged 39 years; left issue. His widow married Dr.
DeForrest of Baltimore, Md., 1843.

4. Samuel Perry, born 1798; married Alzada R. Willey
1824; died 1868, aged 70 years.

5. Edwin, born 1801; married Mary Connor 1833; died
1843, aged 42 years.

6. Mary Ann, born 1803; married Elijah Johnson 1825. Mr.
Johnson died 1875, aged 74 years; left children.

7. Abby, born 1805; married Samuel Clarke 1828: died
1847, aged 42 years; left children.

8. John Ray, born 1808; died 1818, aged 10 years. He wa;
drowned in the Pettaquamscutt River near the foot of Tower
Hill.

9. Sarah Ann. born 1807; married W'illiam Bailey 1832.

38 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Mr. Bailey died 1854, aged 45 years. Mrs. Bailey died 1865,
aged 58 years. They left no children.

The children of Robert — seventh child of Christopher and
grandson of Gov. William Robinson — were:

1. Alexander S.. born 1797; died 1819, aged 22 years.

2. Samuel W., born 1799; never married; died 1862, aged
63 years.

3. Robert, born 1802; never married; died 1869, aged 67
years.

4. Sarah Ann, born 1808; never married; died 1864, aged
56 years.

The children of Matthew — ninth and youngest child of
Christopher and grandson of Gov. William Robinson — were :

1. John P.. born 1799; died 180 1, aged 2 years. He was
twin brother to Rowland.

2. Rowland, born 1799; married 1834; died 1859, ^g^*^ ^o
years; left children.

3. Samuel S., born 1801; married 1825; died 1874, aged 72>
years; left children.

4. Maria, born 1803; died 183 1, aged 27 years; was never
married.

5. Frances W., born 1804; married Benjamin Balch 1842;
died 1845, aged 41 years; left no children.

6. William C, born 1806; died 1827, aged 21 years.

7. Sarah Ann. born 1807; died 1832, aged 25 years.

8. Edward W., born 1809; married 1835; has no children.

9. Hannah, born 181 1; married Edward Earned 1841.
10. S. Ayrault. born 1814; not married.

The children of James Robinson — son of Sylvester and
grandson of Gov. William Robinson — were:

1. William A., born 1797; married Dorcas B. Hadwen 1828;
died 1872, aged 75 years. The children of William A. and Dor-
cas B. Robinson were: i. Mary A., married Jacob Dunnell. 2.
James, married Anna Balch. 3. Edward H., married Grace M.
Howard. 4. Caroline, died 1845. 5- ^nne A. 6. William A ,
Jr., married IMarian L. Swift.

2. Edward Mott, born 1800; married Abby S. Howland;
died 1865. The children of Edward M. and Abby S. Robinson
were: i. Hetty H., married Edward H. Green. 2. Isaac H.,
died in infancv.

ROBINSON FAMILY OF NARRAGANSETT 39

3. Anne A., born 1801; married Stephen A. Chase. Mr.
Chase died in 1876.

4. Sarah, born 1804; died in infancy.

5. Attmore, twin of Sarah; married Laura Hazard. The
children of Attmore and Laura Robinson were: i. James A.,
married first, Mary E. Alger, second, Mary Ring. 2. Jane H.
3. Sylvester, died 1874. 4. George H., married Sarah Dela-
mater. 5. Anne C. 6. William H. H.

6. Rowland, born 1806; died 18 19.

7. Sylvester C, born 1808.

The children of Benjamin Robinson — son of John and
grandson of Gov. William Robinson — were:

1. George, born 1792; died 1795, aged 3 years.

2. John, born 1794; married Rhuhama Robinson 1821 ; died
1 84 1, aged 47 years. Mrs. Robinson died 1868, aged 71 years;
no children.

3. George B., born 1796; married Mary R. Wells 1832. She
died 1838, aged 22 years. Married Julianna Willes 1839. Mr.
Robinson died 1827, aged 76 years.

4. Sylvester, born 1798; married Eliza Noyes 1822; died
1867, aged 69 years. Their children were: i. Ann B., married
Nicholas Austin. 2. B. Franklin, married Caroline Rodman.
3. Hannah.

5. William B., born 1800; married Harriet Robinson 1827.
She died 1828, aged 21 years. Married Eliza A. Robinson
183 1. She died 1874, aged /2 years. Mr. Robinson died 1875,
aged 75 years. His children were: i. Caroline H., born 1828,
died 1829. 2. Caroline E., born 1842, married Benjamin Sher-
man 1875.

The children of John L Robinson — son of John and grand-
son of Gov. William Robinson — were:

1. James, born 1796; married Maria Gibbs 1832; died 1874.
aged 78 years. Mrs. Robinson died 1875. aged 70 years. Their
children were: i. John C, born 1835, died 1865, aged 30 years.
2. James, born 1837, died 1838. 3. Virginia, born 1839, died
1846. 4. xA.rabella, born 1845, niarried John A. Cross 1871.

2. Mary Ann, born 1798; married Mr. Shotwell 1825; died
1870, aged 71 years, leaving one child.

40 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

The children of WilHam C. Robinson — son of WilHam C. —
were :

1. Frances W., born 1829; died 1851, aged 21 years.

2. WilHam A., born 1834; died 1837, aged 3 years.

3. Ann Maria, born 1836; married Albert J. S. jMolinard
1836. Captain Molinard died 1875, leaving two children. Airs.
Molinard married Mr. Pendall for her second husband, 1875.

4. Edward Ayrault, born 1838; married Alice Canby 1871;
has children.

5. George Francis, born 1843; married Ellen F. Lord 1869;
has children.

The children of George B. Robinson — son of Benjamin and
great-grandson of Gov. William Robinson — were:

1. Maria, born 1833; died 1848.

2. Elizabeth B., born 1835.

3. John W., born 1836; died 1837.

4. Mary W., born 1838; died 1838.

5. Hannah W., born 1840.

6. George B., born 1842; married.

7. Thomas W., born 1843.

The children of Samuel Perry Robinson — son of Jesse and
great-grandson of Gov. William Robinson — were:

1. Anna R., born 1824; died 1853, aged 29 years.

2. William J., born 1828; died 1829.

3. William, born 1830.

4. Hannah T., born 1832; died 1834.

5. Edwin M., born 1834; died 1861, aged 26 years.

6. Sarah Jane, born 1837; died 1841.

7. Alzayda R. W., born 1839.

8. Rebecca, born 1842; married Alfred Gregory, 1870.

9. Alvira Weeden, born 1843.

10. Samuel P., born 1844.

11. Kingston Goddard. born 1846.

The children of George C. Robinson — eldest son of Chris-
topher C. and great-grandson of Gov. William Robinson — were:

I. Jeremiah P., born 1819; married Elizabeth DeWitt 1843.
Their children are: i. Mary N., born 1844; died 1845, aged i
year, 4 months and 17 days. 2. Jeremiah P., born 1846; married

ROBINSON FAMILY OF NARRAGANSBTT 41

Margaret D. Lanman 1867. 3. Elizabeth D., born 1851; mar-
ried Lewis H. Leonard 1871. 4. Harriet W., born 1853. 5.
Isaac R., born 1856.

2. Sarah H., born 1821; married Wilham Rhodes Hazard
1851; died i860, aged 38 years.

3. EHzabeth A., born 1823; married James Stewart 1854.

4. George C, born 1825; married Mary L. Arnold 1852.
Their children are: i. George C, born 1854. 2. Louisa L., born
1856. 3. Mary N., born 1858. 4. Richard A., born i860; died
1862, aged I year and 10 months. 5. Margaret, born 1864. 6.
Anna D., born 1870; died 1871, aged i year, 6 months and 12
days. 7. Edward Wanton, born 1872.

5. Mary N., born 1827; married George G. Pearse, 1849.
The children of Thurston Robinson — son of Christopher C.

and great-grandson of Gov. William Robinson — were:

1. Morton, born 1825; married Ann E. Collins 1854. Their
children are: i. Anna, born 1855, married Sylvester Cross 1875.
2. Harriet E., born 1858. 3. Frances W., born 1859; niarried
Herbert Turrell. 4. Benjamin A., born 1862. 5. Morton P.,
born 1864. Harriet E. married a son of Gen. Rodman, who was
mortally wounded at the battle of Antietam.

2. Harriet, born 1828; married Samuel Robinson.

3. Benjamin, born 1832; died 1834.

The children of Elisha A. Robinson — son of Christopher C.
and great-grandson of Gov. William Robinson — were:

1. Sarah Hull, born 1838; married John Eldred of New-
port, R. L, 1869. They have one son, John Robinson.

2. George L, born 1840: married Jane Porter 1864.

3. Christopher C, born 1842; married Alvira A. Elanchard
1867; died Feb. 8, 1879.

4. Elisha A., born 1845; married Abby A. Proud 1874.

5. Mary Anna, born 1847; ^^^^ 1848, aged 5 months and 16
days.

6. Benjamin Hull, born 1849; ^lied 1850, aged 6 months and
8 days.

7. Francis Warner, born 1852; married Mary Nichols 1875.

NOTE — If errors are found in the foregoing records kindly send corrections to editor.

42 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK
ROWLAND ROBINSON AND HIS DAUGHTER HANNAH.

BY

Mrs. Herbert Turrell

(Thomas R. Hazard— Shepherd Tom — in his quaint "Recollections of
Olden Times" furnishes us with the best material for the following nar-
rative.)

Among the early descendants of Rowland Robinson — the
founder of the Narragansett family of Robinson — no stronger
type developed than Rowland Robinson, the eldest son of Gov.
William Robinson.

Rowland Robinson, though perhaps a little too much after
the brusk order of Fielding's Squire Western, was a fair speci-
men, in temper and manners, and a perfect beau ideal, in cos-
tume, presence and person, of the old-time country gentleman
who constituted the semi-feudal aristocracy of Narragansett.

In person he was portly, tall and erect. His features were
Roman, slightly tempered with the Grecian type. His clear,
blonde complexion, inclining to red and undulating brown hair,
worn in a quetie behind, attested his Saxon descent. When in full
dress Mr. Robinson generally wore a dark silk-velvet or brown
broadcloth coat, light yellow plush waistcoat, with deep pockets
and wide flaps resting partly on the hips, short violet-colored
velvet breeches buckled at the knees, nicely polished white-top
boots or silver buckled shoes, fine cambric shirt profusely rufiled
and plaited at the bosom and wrists, with white silk neck-tie to
match; the whole surmounted and set ofif by a looped-up tri-
angular hat on his head and a stout gold-headed cane in his hand.

I have heard it said by persons acquainted with Revolution-
ary data that such was the admiration inspired by the fine ap-
pearance and courtly bearing of Rowland Robinson, though
then far beyond the prime of manhood, who occasionally came
to his brother Thomas Robinson's house in Newport, where
Count Rochambeau, commander of the French land forces, re-
sided for some time as a guest, that many of the count's officers
sought introductory letters to Mr. Robinson, that they might
obtain access to and share in the hospitality of his home in Nar-
ragansett.

Many a Quaker beauty was watched with exceeding care

ROWLAND ROBINSON AND HIS DAUGHTER 43

to protect them from his "most Christian Majesty's" land forces
in Newport.

In the year 1741 Rowland Robinson married Anstis Gar-
diner, daughter of Col. John Gardiner, who lived in Boston Neck.

Mr. Robinson, with others, sent a vessel from Franklin
Ferry to the Guinea coast for slaves for the purpose of selecting
servants for his house and farm, and to sell the remaining por-
tion which would fall to his lot. Up to the time of the return of
the vessel, the cruelty and injustice involved in the slave trade
had never been brought to his attention, but now when he saw
the forlorn, woe-begone looking men and women who had been
huddled together like beasts, disembarking, some of them too
feeble to stand alone, the enormity of his ofifense against human-
ity presented itself so vividly to his susceptible mind that he
wept like a child, nor would he consent that a single slave which
fell to his share — twenty-eight in all — should be sold, but took
them all to his own home where, though held in servitude, were
kindly cared for.

It has been suggested that much of Rowland Robinson's
popularity as a host was due to his beautiful and accomplished
family, viz. : two daughters, Hannah and Mary. His son w'as
spoken of as having been, in his gentle disposition, the opposite
of his father. He seems to have been singularly beloved, and
when he died (October, 1804) the whole town of Newport
mourned his loss ; it is said that strong men wept when recounting
his virtues.

The death of his daughter Mary in early womanhood and
the tragic fate of Hannah greatly weakened Mr. Robinson's
mind. Many anecdotes were told of his eccentricities at this
time, all of which lend force to the idea of his having possessed
a marked character. The following shows us Mr. Robinson's
religious sympathies: "One day while in a ferryboat on his way
to Newport, a fellow passenger made some remark derogatory to
the Society of Friends, for which Mr. Robinson reproved him in
no very gentle terms. 'Are you a Quaker, sir?' said the stranger.
'No,' was the quick reply; 'but I know and love the Quakers so
well that I would fight knee deep in blood in their defense,' which
the man knew to be no idle boast."

On another occasion he called on his sister, in a towering
rage against one of the Robinson family in Narragansett, witii

44 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

whom he had quarreled, stating his grievance. "Sal," said he
(as he always called her) "the Robinsons are all rogues." "Why,
no," said she; "that cannot be so, brother Rowland, for in that
case thou, being a Robinson, must be a rogue thyself." "I be-
lieve I am, Sal! I believe I am!" was the old gentleman's quick
reply.

The strong love and jealous pride of Rowland Robinson, as
exemplified toward his daughter Hannah, are two of the dom-
inant characteristics of the Robinson family.

Of Hannah Robinson, it has been said that "her personal
charms and accomplishments must have been of a character al-
most exceeding belief. She was described as being rather above
the medium height, her figure just a trifle inclined to embonpoint,
of a clear complexion, delicately tinted with the rose, dark hazel
eyes, Greacean features of the finest mould throughout, sur-
mounted with a faultless head of auburn hair that fell in luxuri-
ous rino:lets about her swan-like neck and shoulders, all of which
was made the more bewitchingly attractive by a surpassingly
lovely expression of countenance, and an incomparable grace in
speech, manner and carriage."

The parents of Hannah spared neither pains nor expense
in the education of their children; when advanced in her teens
their daughter was placed in the care of an aunt at Newport, that
she might receive instruction in the more "polite branches"
under the care of the celebrated Aladame Osborne — a most ac-
complished lady, whose fame as an instructor of young ladies
was not confined to Newport.

It was while studying with Madame Osborne that Hannah
first saw M. Pierre Simons, a son of a Huguenot family of some
note, who were obliged to flee from their country during the
persecutions of the French Protestants in the reign of Louis
XIV. Almost from the hour they met a sentiment of afifection
sprang up in the hearts of the young tutor employed by Mrs.
Osborne and his lovely, unsophisticated pupil, which ripened
into a strong, mutual attachment.

The lovers were aware that it would not do for one in Mr.
Simons' position in life to venture into the proud father's house
as a suitor of his daughter. Fortune seemed to favor the young
people: Hannah's uncle, Col. William Gardiner, educated his
children at home, and in looking about for a private tutor, en-

ROWLAND ROBINSON AND HIS DAUGHTER 45

gaged Pierre Simons to go with him to his Narragansett home
and occupy that position in his family. The lovers enjoyed
many opportmiities of seeing each other, especially as Col. Gar-
diner, who was of a kind and easy disposition, on becoming-
aware of the love which existed between his beautiful niece ana
her former tutor, sought rather to promote opportunities for
interviews between the lovers than otherwise.

The mother's suspicions were aroused, and Hannah con-
fided to her the secret of her love.

After trying for months, in vain, to persuade her child to
discourage her affianced lover, and finding that nothing would
induce her to dismiss him, Mrs. Robinson forbore further opposi-
tion. Thus encouraged bv the mother's tacit consent, if not
approval of his suit, it was mutually arranged by the lovers that
Pierre should occasionally walk over from Col. Gardiner's of
an evening, and upon the appearance of a signal light in Han-
nah's window approach the house and secrete himself in a large
lilac bush which grew beneath it, where love messages might be
easily passed. In fact, so emboldened did the lovers become bv
the unbroken success that attended their stratagem, that they
finally arranged for occasional meetings in Hannah's room; her
mother lending her presence and countenance to the dangerous
adventure, rendered all the more critical because of its being the
undeviating practice of Hannah's father to bid her "good night"
before he retired, even if it required his going to her own room
or elsewhere. It was necessary to have a convenient place in
which Hannah's lover might retreat on untoward occasions.
Such a place- — a cupboard — was in the room.

Though not grown to mature womanhood, Hannah, as
might be readily surmised, had many admirers; among them was
a William Bowen of Providence, who was ardently attached to
the fair girl and earnestly sought her, with her father's full ap-
proval, in marriage. Hannah, however, graciously declined his
attentions, and that he might not indulge in hope imparted to
him in confidence the fact that her affections were engaged to
another, which confidence he kept inviolate.

Dr. Joshua liabcock of Westerly, Narragansett, was a gen-
tleman of refinement and wealth, at whose house Benjamin
Franklin used to stop.

Updike in his History relates charming anecdotes of this

46 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

distinguished man. Following is one: While Franklin was
stopping at Dr. Babcock's, Mrs. Babcock asked him on one occa-
sion if he would have his bed warmed — as was the custom in
these early days. "Xo, madam, thank'u," he replied, "but if
you will have a little cold water sprinkled on the sheets, I have
no objection." Another story belonging to this period is one
now familiar to many of us without our having known its origin:
Dr. Franklin happened to arrive at a tavern near New London
on a cold evening, where he found every place about the blazing-
wood fire occupied; the doctor called upon the landlord to feed
his horse a peck of raw oysters; the oysters were carried out,
followed by the curious guests. The landlord soon returned
and told the doctor, who, by this time, was comfortably ensconced
in an arm-chair in the warmest corner, that the horse refused to
eat the oysters. "Poor, foolish beast," said Franklin; "he don't
know what is good; bring them to me, and see if I will refuse
them!"

Dr. Babcock's eldest son, Col. Harry Babcock — Crazy
Harry — was a brilliant and extraordinary man. It is further
suggested by the historian that his biography, written by one
who has the requisite data, would form a curious and instructive
record of the customs and manners of his times.

"Crazy Harry" Babcock was perhaps never subdued by
female charms but once. Two anecdotes told of him are of in-
terest: Before the Revolutionary War he went to London, and
on the night of his arrival attended a play at the Covent Garden
Theatre. There being no seat vacant, the colonel stood in the
passage-way; a man seeing his tall, gaunt figure, standing erect,
with a big slouch hat on his head, touched his shoulder and told
him to uncover. Col. Babcock thereupon took ofif his hat, and
reaching up to a chandelier near by hung it over one of the
lights. A murmur of disapproval ran through the hall, and the
police were about to eject the rude intruder from the theatre,
when someone present called out, "Col. Harry Babcock!"
Upon this announcement the performers ceased acting their parts
to join in the uproarious applause that greeted the presence of the
far-famed hero. A short time after this Colonel Harry received
an invitation to the palace and was introduced to the royal family.
When the Queen, in accordance with usage, ofifered him her hand
to kiss, the gallant colonel sprang from his knees to his feet.

ROWLAND ROBINSON AND HIS DAUGHTER 47

briskly exclaiming, "May it please your Majesty, in my country
it is the custom to salute, not the hands but the lips of a beauti-
ful woman," and seizing the Queen by the shoulders, impressed
upon her lips a loud and hearty smack!

Rowland Robinson, chancing once to meet Col. Babcock
on Little Rest Hill (now Kingston), asked the eccentric colonel
to go home with him and stay the night. "Ah, ha!" said "Crazy
Harrv," "so you want me to see Hannah, that I've heard so
much of, do you? Well, I will go, but don't expect me to fall
in love with her, as so many fools have done." As was the
custom in those days, they both rode on horseback, and when
they came near McSparran Hill, one of the longest and prob-
ably the steepest hill in Rhode Island, the ground being covered
with ice at the time, Mr. Robinson cautioned his friend against
the danger of descending on a smooth-shod horse, and advised
him to dismount and lead his beast down the descent. When
Mr. Robinson was in the act of dismounting, "Crazy Harry"
suddenly exclaimed, "Now, Mr. Robinson, I will show you how
the devil rides," and putting spurs to his horse, went down the
steep declivity on a full run.

When they arrived at the house the colonel was in high glee
at the prospect, as he said, of seeing "the prettiest woman in
Rhode Island," these words being spoken in a loud, jocular tone,
just as they entered the door of the room where Miss Robinson
was sewing. With a slight flush on her cheeks, and a look of
surprise, she arose with her customary dignity and grace to re-
ceive her father and welcome his boisterous guest, whose eyes no
sooner fell upon the beautiful woman than the rough-spoken
hero seemed to have been suddenly overcome by some charmed
spell. As Miss Robinson, on being introduced by her father,
extended toward him her hand, Col. Babcock reverentially took
it gently in his, and gazing in her face with a subdued look of
wonder and admiration, he dropped on his knee before her, and
with tremulous voice, softly and slowly said: "Permit, dear
madam, the lips that have kissed unrebuked those of the proud-
est Queen of earth, to press for a moment the hand of an angel
from heaven." Scarcely less flattering was the compliment paid
by an old Quaker preacher: "Friend, thou are wonderfully beau-
tiful!"

His daughter's rejection of many suitors aroused 3.1r. Rob-

48 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN POLK

inson's suspicions. Chancing late one evening to step suddenly
out of the front door, Mr. Robinson caught a glimpse of his
daughter's arm reaching down from the window above, just as
she was about to drop a billet into the extended hand of her
lover. Fortunately for Pierre, he escaped from Mr. Robinson's
buckthorn cane, but not before Mr. Robinson recognized the
young teacher of music he remembered to have seen at the house
of his brother-in-law — William Gardiner.

Frantic with rage, he upbraided his daughter for throwing
herself away upon a wretched "French dancing master." The
poor girl answered not a word, but remained mute under all her
father's reproaches. "If she walked," says Updike, p. 189, "her
movements were watched; if she rode, a servant was ordered to
be in constant attendance": in fact, Hannah was never permitted
to be alone. On account of ]\Ir. Robinson's rabid and unrea-
sonable opposition to his daughter's wishes, and because of the
rigid measures adopted with Hannah, nearly the whole neigh-
borhood became interested in the lovers' behalf, and almost
every connection of the family was ready to assist in forwarding
opportunities for their interviews. The life of anxiety and worry
Hannah was subjected to, finally began to afifect her health.
With the proffered aid of friends, the poor girl planned to elope
from her father's house, and it was not long before an occasion
presented itself.

It was the custom in those days for wealthy families of
Narragansett to entertain on an extensive scale. A ball was
given by Mrs. Lodowick Updike, who was a sister of Mrs. Row-
land Robinson. It would have been a breach of etiquette were
not some of Mr. Robinson's family to attend; on the occasion it
was arranged, with many misgivings on his part, that his two
daughters, Hannah and Mary, should go to the ball and stay
the night with their aunt. When the morning of the day of
Hannah's departure — perhaps forever — arrived, the struggle to
separate herself from all that was dear from her earliest recollec-
tion was sad to contemplate. Still Hannah maintained an out-
ward appearance of composure until the moment came to take
leave of the household. After bidding Phillis the cook, and
Hannah her maid, an affectionate farewell, she threw her arms
about her mother's neck and sobbed as if her heart were break-
ing. Still the high-spirited girl — the victim of what in the end

ROWLAND ROBINSON AND HIS DAUGHTER 49

proved to be a misplaced affection — persevered in her resolution
to remain faithful to her vows — mounting from the stone horse-
block her splendid Spanish "jennet" (Narragansett pacer),
Hannah and her companions rode awa}-.

It was fortunate that Hannah took leave of her father at an
earlier hour, for her filial and tender love for her father would
have betrayed in her emotions her design — to make this journey
from home the one to her lover. On Ridge Hill, a thickly
wooded spot, Hannah and her companions encountered the lover
with a closed carriage, into which the affianced bride hastily
stepped and was driven rapidly away, on the road to Providence,
in spite of the frantic appeals of Prince, the attendant. Miss
Simons — Pierre's sister — assisted Hannah with a necessary
wardrobe, and with the aid of the pastoral services of a minister
of the Episcopal Church, the lovers were married.

When Mr. Robinson learned of his daughter's elopement
with the "French dancing master" he so despised, he was, for a
time, completely beside himself with rage, and offered a large
reward to anyone who would make known to him the person or
persons who aided his daughter's escape, but wholly without
success.

After her marriage Mr. Simons took his bride to reside
for a time with his father. Here Hannah remained for some
months until her husband obtained a professional situation in
Providence, when he removed his wife to that city, where she
lived for several years up to the time she went home to die.

Mr. Pierre Simons, though of pleasing person and seductive
manners, proved to be an unthrifty and unprincipled man — as
we might suspect — who, finding that his wife was discarded and
likely to be disinherited by her father, began not long after her
marriage to treat her with neglect, and through dissipated habits
almost entirely deserted her.

Continuing to love her worthless husband, notwithstanding
his cruel treatment, the poor woman's heart broke and she be-
came a hopeless invalid.

With the exception of her wardrobe and her little dog,
which was sent to her by her mother. Hannah received no as-
sistance nor recognition for some time whatever from her home.
Upon learning the pitiable condition of her suffering daughter.
Mrs. Robinson, through her son William and others, provided

50 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

for her most pressing material wants. It was in vain, however,
that she pleaded with her incensed husband to permit her to be
brought to the tender care and comfort of her father's home.
Notwithstanding the opposition of the father, there was still a
soft place in his proud and wounded heart for her memory to
nestle in. Airs. Robinson observed that when he returned home
after an absence, in case Hannah's cat was not in sight, he would
wander abstractedly from room to room until he encountered
it, when, without seemingly noticing the animal, he would sit
quietly down. He would stealthily feed Felis from his own
plate, and on one occasion Mrs. Robinson found the sorrowing
father, sufifused with tears, pressing the dumb favorite of his dis-
carded child to his bosom. Hannah's favorite horse was also
caressed when Mr. Robinson thought no one was near to ob
serve it.

When news arrived of Mrs. Simons' rapid decline, Mr. Rob-
inson began to manifest symptoms of serious alarm, and told the
mother that Hannah might come home, if she would reveal to
him the names of those who assisted in her elopement, but on
no other condition, let the consequences be what they might.
, On being informed of her father's proposition, Hannah wrote
an affectionate letter, full of devoted tenderness, but finally re-
fusing to betray a confidence reposed in her. On receiving his
daughter's letter, Mr. Robinson read it eagerly with apparent
satisfaction until he reached the last paragraph, when, tossing
the letter contemptuously to his wife, angrily said, "Then let the
foolish thing die where she is."

As the accovmts of Hannah's alarming condition reached
Mr. Robinson, it became evident that a terrible struggle for
mastery was going on in the wretched father's breast. The con-
flict at last became unendurable, and one day, pushing from him
a plate of untasted food, he arose from the dinner table and
ordered his horse to the door, and telling his wife not to expect
him back for a day or two, rode rapidly away. The next fore-
noon he reached his daughter's house, and riding up to the door
without dismounting, rapped on the door with the head of his
cane.

The door was opened by his daughter's maid, Hannah, who

ROWLAND ROBINSON AND HIS DAUGHTER 51

was born in his honse a short time after her young mistress and
called after her name. Overjoyed to see her master, she hastened
to her mistress' chamber with the glad news of his arrival.

Hannah was too ill to leave her bed, but sent entreaties to
her father to come to her. "Ask your mistress," said Mr. Rob-
inson, "whether she is ready to comply with her father's wishes,
that if she is, he will come to her; but on no other condition!"
Not finding it possible in her noble nature to betray her friends,
Hannah again denied her father. Without saying an intelligible
word, he rode back, without refreshment, to his friend Lodo-
wick Updike's, where he had passed the night before, and away
to his sad home in the morning.

But a day or two elapsed after his return from the first visit,
when Mr. Robinson again started on the road to Providence.
These visits he continued to repeat at intervals of two or three
days only, for several weeks. In every instance he would ride
up to the door of the house where his sick daughter lay, and
without dismounting rap at the door with his cane and simply
say, "How is Hannah?" and on receiving an answer turn the
head of his horse and ride away.

Miss Belden of Hartford, and Mrs. Simons' uncle, William
Gardiner — the friends who assisted her elopement — on learning
the sad dilemma, counseled Hannah the next time her father
visited her house to reveal to him the names of the parties
implicated. Thus absolved, Hannah sent word that if he would
come to her bedside she would tell all. Trembling with emo-
tion, Mr. Robinson dismounted and hurried to the comfortless,
wretched chamber of his sick daughter.

He had formed no conception of the extremity to which his
poor child was reduced. As he approached the bed and took
her hand, thin almost to transparency, in both of his and looking
into the faded face, with naught remaining of her former ex-
quisite beauty, the floodgates that had withstood the promptings
of his better nature gave way, and the long pent-up affection of
the father's heart burst into one uncontrollable tide of tenderness
and love. No wish or thought remained to wring from his poor
Hannah the coveted secret, but falling on his knees by the bed-
side, bathed the pale, cold hand of the dying child with tears and
wept aloud.

After he had somewhat regained his composure, he handed

52 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

several pieces of gold to the maid, standing in tearful silence by
the bed of her beloved mistress, charging her to get everything
necessary for her mistress' comfort until his return, and tenderly
kissing his broken-hearted child, Mr. Robinson left for his home
in Boston Neck, where he arrived late at night.

In those early times, when roads were rough and four-
wheeled carriages almost unknown, an indispensable household
article was a litter for the sick. Immediately after Mr. Robin-
son arrived at his home, he summoned from their beds four
strong men, and ordered them to proceed with the litter in his
pleasure boat to Providence, and there await his arrival. The
next morning at break of day Mr. Robinson himself started on
horseback, attended by Prince and a led-horse for his daughter's
maidservant.

The invalid was informed of the arrangements that had
been made for conveying her to Narragansett. by which it was
proposed to stop at her Uncle Updike's the first night, and, if
her strength permitted, to reach home the next day. At nine
o'clock the next morning the whole party were slowly winding
their way toward the homestead in Boston Neck. They arrived
safely at Mr. Updike's with less fatigue to the poor invalid than
was feared. There the party rested for the night.

It was in the lovely month of June, when the rose, the syrin-
ga and wild honeysuckle and sweet clover were all in bloom; a
shower the night before had made everything fresh and spark-
ling in the sun's full beams. As the mournful party moved for-
ward, ever and anon the small native wood animals darted across
the path — all nature seemed to be welcoming Hannah home.
When the spot was reached on Ridge Hill, where the faithful
Hannah had met her lover and bid adieu to her sister Mary, who
had died, she covered her face with both hands and seemed to
be weeping.

When Prince was asked what Mrs. Simons did on this occa-
sion, Prince answered that, "Missus Hannah didn't do nothin'!
She eny just put both hands over her face and cried! That wer
all!"

Old Alexander Gardiner, Sr., was to entertain the party for
a short period of rest. The old man, being aware of the coming
of the guests, had dressed himself in his "go-to-meetin' " or
"roast meat" or i. e., Sunday dinner suit of vellow nankeen

ROWLAND ROBINSON AND HIS DAUGHTER 53

breeches with waistcoat to match, and a semi-military blue coat,
ornamented with a long row of silver Spanish dollar but-
tons in front. He stood in his door to welcome their approach
by removing his imposing cocked hat and making three low
bows, first to the poor lady in the litter, next to Mr. Robinson, and
lastly to the attendants. After the party rested for an hour or
so, they proceeded on their way. The old familiar scenes
aroused Hannah at every step: the birds in the hedge with their
half-fledged young; soft, rustling sounds of an unusual nature
elicited special interest, and many delays were occasioned. As
the sun declined, Mr. Robinson tenderly suggested to his sick
daughter the danger to be apprehended from the evening air,
and the need of haste, and it was not until after the booming
evening gun from Fort George in Newport harbor had met and
mingled its roar with the dirge-like note of the fern owl, that
always begins its mournful song exactly as the sun goes down,
that the reluctant invalid was willing to leave the rock on Mc-
Sparran Hill, where they had halted. Casting one long, wistful
look toward the still roseate west, and murmuring to herself, "It
is the last time," Hannah motioned her attendants to proceed.

As the party drew near the house, which was not until late
in the evening, they were met by the whole family. The poor
invalid, now too weak to respond to the tender greetings, was
lovingly carried in her father's arms and placed in her own
chamber and bed, and everything done for her comfort which
mortal love could suggest. A marked change had taken place
in her condition. The long journey and the excitement which
attended proved too much for her weakened vital powers, and
before midnight a raging fever set in — in the delirium she re-
verted to the days when her lover vowed everlasting love and
beguiled her from her home — the years of sorrow were blotted
from her memory. She called wildly on her lover's name, that
he would come and defend her from her now, alas, wretched
father's wrath and vengeance.

At about the hour of midnight, a whip-poor-will, called l)y
the Indians "muck-a-wiss" — conic to mc — perched on the eave
of the house opposite the lilac bush, and sung its mournful song
of "Whip-poor-will, whip-poor-will."

The ominous cry of the bird penetrated the delirium of the
poor brain. Pausing, and listening for a few moments she ex-

54 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

claimed, "Hark! mother, do you hear the death angel calling?
He is out in the lilac tree, mother! He has come to take me
away and marry me, mother! It will be a sad wedding day,
mother, but not so sad as that other, dear mother!" Then, turn-
ing her attention to a withered flower on her bosom, she said,
"He told me, when he gave it to me, that we must call it not life
everlasting, but love everlasting! Lay it with me in my grave,
mother, that I may take it to the land where life is everlasting,
and where love never dies."

As the sun rose in the morning, though weak and helpless,
she called for the trinkets and different articles of her wardrobe,
and distributed them with her own hands. This done, with
feeble, outstretched arms, she turned to her father and mother
and pressed a last kiss on their lips; her agonized father, kneeling
beside the bed, held her extended hand in his. Before she
breathed her last, she cast her eyes upon her mother with an un-
utterable expression of affection, and then, fixing them on her
father, she continued to look lovingly and steadfastly in his. as
if she would convey to him a message of her undying respect and
love, until they closed in death.

The old nurse. Mum Amey, raised her eyes from the face of
her dying mistress, and with a look of devout admiration ex-
claimed, "De angels is come."

Dr. Robert Hazard, the family physician, expressed his be-
lief that the death of his lovely cousin was due to a deep-seated,
consuming sorrow. Old nurse Mum Amey, when asked a few
days after the funeral, "what ailed her young mistress when she
died?" she answered, "Nothin' ail' Missus Hannah. Dis world
wer eny jes' too hard for her, an' de poor chile die ob de heart
break."

One pathetic incident was that of the refusal of Hannah's
little dog, Marcus, to be enticed from his mistress' grave. It
also refused to eat or drink; but the poor thing died from sheer
starvation in a cavity it had scratched, and from day to day
deepened in the ground, just beneath the doorway of her tomb.
In this grave of the aiTectionate brute's own digging it was found
one morning dead by Mr. Robinson, and was there buried by its
master's own hands, after being carefully wrapped in the linen
case from ofT the pillow on which its mistress' head last lay.

Some days after the last sad ceremony, Mr. Pierre Simons

JEREMIAH POTTER ROBINSON 55

returned to Providence, where he learned of his wife's death. A
regard for decency, if not remorse of conscience, prompted him
to call at his father-in-law's, to be present, if permitted, at the
removal of the body of Hannah to a newly erected tomb. Mr.
Robinson received him courteously, but after asking him to par-
take of the hospitality of the house, while he remained his guest
he never after spoke to him until the morning his daughter's re-
mains were removed, and then only to notify him briefly of his
intention in that respect.

Mr. Updike represents Hannah's father,Rowland Robinson,
as possessed of a relentless, unforgiving spirit. This does great
injustice to his character. Though impetuous and overbearing
in temper it may be, it was far from vindictive. The writer sees
a true' descendant of the first Rowland, and the characters, both
of father and daughter, were Strong, dominant and enduring.
United to a firm will and integrity of conscience was the magnetic
charm of a fine personality, to be found in our own day in the
character and personality of scores of Rowland Robinson's and
Marv Allen's descendants.

JEREMIAH POTTER ROBIXSON

BY

Mrs. Herbert Turrell

Jeremiah P. Robinson, great-great-great-grandson of
Rowland Robinson, was born August 18, 181 9, at Tower Hill,
in the "Church House."

Mr. Robinson began life in Newport, R. I. In 1836, at the
age of sixteen, he went to New York, where he was employed
by the firm of P. & A. Woodrufif, and after a few years attained
a partnership in the business. The name of the firm later was
changed to A. Woodruff & Robinson, and then to J. P. & G. C.
Robinson. His business desk stood for almost half a century on
nearly the same spot that business is now transacted on what is
practically the site of the house which he entered as a bov.

56 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

About the year 1843, ^I^- Robinson began to look with much-
interest upon the growing city of Brooklyn, and soon purchased
large blocks of real estate on the Brooklyn river front, improving
them by building upon them warehouses and piers. He was
thus among the pioneers of the great warehouse system of that
city. A few years later, with William Beard, he became inter-
ested in the water front in South Brooklyn, and began the work
of planning and constructing the great Erie Basin and the adjoin-
ing basins, building piers and warehouses, until at this time there
is a wharfage and dockage of several miles where vessels are
loaded and unloaded.

It is the largest and most comprehensive dock system in the
world. Mr. Robinson was ever watchful of the rights of labor-
ing men, and in his business projects much care was taken to pay
each laborer liberally for extra service, the result being great
faithfulness to the interest of their employer. Mr. Robinson was
one of the prominent supporters of the great East River Bridge
enterprise, and as a bridge trustee gave intelligent attention to
all the details of its progress and management. He honorably
filled the position of president of the board of trustees through
the most trying periods of the work. He married May 22^, 1843,
Elizabeth DeWitt of Cranberry, N. J. (From the Hazard Family
Caroline Robinson.)

Desiring a little more intimate touch with the life and char-
acter of a man so important in the development of the great
borough of Brooklyn, the writer learned the following facts:
Without an education other than that provided by a country
school Mr. Robinson began his career. Early in life he devoted
much of his leisure time to books, making a specialty of Shake-
spearean study and dramatic art. At a time when Shakesperean
drama was presented by its best interpreters, he was a devoted
patron, and developed for himself a literary taste almost scholarly.

In personal appearance Mr. Robinson was a splendid repre-
sentative of the race, both in features and figure, and in general
character a man conspicuous among men.

Some members of the Narragansett family of Robinson have
reached a height of over six feet three, and most of them are
noticeable, especially those of the past generation, for their height
and magnificent proportions.

Mr. Robinson was a man who valued life; never a moment

GEORGE GHAMPLIN ROBINSON 57

was wasted, but from sunrise to sunset his splendid health per-
mitted him to accomplish more than the usual share of work
allotted to man. Unusually tender and attentive to the close
ties which bound him to his family, they looked upon him as
more than father and as more than friend. He also possessed
the pride of birth which belongs to the Robinson family — a pride
that urges its members to be something and to do something in
their day and generation.

Mr. Robinson's sudden death, August 26, 1886, was a shock
to a devoted family and a great loss to his immediate community,
where he lived a marked figure, socially, morally and intellectu-
allv, and in the larger circle of business enterprise his loss was
sincerely lamented.

GEORGE CHAMPLIN ROBINSON

BY

Mrs. Herbert Turrell

George C. Robinson of Wakefield, R. I., was born in South
Kingston, R. I., January 26, 1825. His boyhood days were
spent on the farm belonging to his grandfather, Jeremiah Niles
Potter. At an early age he went into business in New York
City, and later became a member of the well-known firm of
Woodruff & Robinson. Upon the dissolution of this firm he
formed a partnership with his brother, Jeremiah Potter Robin-
son, and with him and Franklin Woodruff was identified with
the development of the Brooklyn water front and w^arehouse
system.

For many years Mr. Robinson resided in Brooklyn and was
a member of Plymouth Church.

In Mr. Robinson's social relations he identified himself with
the New England Society of New York, the Long Island His-
torical Society and of the Art Association of Brooklyn. In the
charities of Brooklyn he was a liberal patron.

Mr. Robinson married when a young man oMary Lyman

58 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

/\rnold, a daughter of the late Gov. Lemuel Hastings x\rnold of
Rhode Island.

On his retiring from active business, Mr. and Mrs. Robin-
son returned to their native State and settled in Wakefield, w^here
their beautiful country home was located.

It was impossible for a man of Mr. Robinson's activity to
withdraw entirely from the business world, and after beautifying
his own home in Wakefield, which stimulated the community to
improve properties in the village, he gave much of his attention,
until he died, to raising the standard of Narragansett Pier hotel
property. Many hotels in this place were old and unattractive
until Mr. Robinson built the Gladstone Hotel. To-day the
greatly improved condition of the famous pier, and general pro-
gressive spirit of property-owners, due to the impetus inaugu-
rated by him, has brought this section more than ever to the
popular attention.

It would seem that George C. Robinson inherited not only
the progressive spirit of Rowland Robinson — his forbear — but
very much of the gentle, Quaker spirit of Mary Allen.

The first time the writer met Mr. Robinson, though quite
young, she was particularly impressed by his courtly bearing —
afifable, without condescension; self-possessed, without con-
sciousness.

In dispensing the hospitality of his home, there was a dig-
nity and grace of manner that in later years, when the hair had
silvered, reminded one of the old aristocrat of colonial days,
much of whose spirit must have been transmitted to this man.

Mr. Robinson was a very reticent man, and adverse to being
conspicuous, which was in harmony with the genuineness and
simplicity of his character. His death a few years since was
keenly felt by his townspeople, to whom he had been a helpful,
loving neighbor, but he was a loss more especially to the un-
fortunate poor, to whom he was a friend and benefactor.

The influence of Mr. Robinson's life will be felt many gen-
erations to come.

ATM ORE ROBINSON OF WAKEFIELD 59

ATMORE ROBINSON

BY

]\Irs. Herbert Turrell

Like an artery through which passes some of the best blood
of this nation runs tlie main street of the httle village of Wake-
field, R. I.

In its earliest history, when not much more than a saddle
path, marked out by the Narragansett Indians as their trail to
the sea, it was the highway over which passed Washington,
Lafayette, Rochambeau, Benjamin Franklin and many other dis-
tinguished men, as they partook of the hospitality extended to
them by the old families of South Kingston. The village has
its town pump, its mill, old bridge, quaint church, winding by-
paths and ancient trees to inspire a Hawthorne.

The village mentor and miser and haunted house were not
wanting, as tales of old villagers testify.

The family names of Watson, Hazard, Wright, Champlin,
Robinson, Perry, Gardiner, names conspicuous in the enterprises
and policies of the world, are to be found, with their homesteads
on or not far from this village center.

In the heart of this village on the main thoroughfare lived
Atmore Robinson, son of Sylvester, and great-grandson of Gov.
William Robinson, who chose as his field for activity his native
village. Born in 1804, he made his start with many men who
made the nation in its commercial and political importance what
it is to-day.

Like his forbears, Mr. Robinson had the spirit of progress,
and early in life studied the banking system. How much he
was influenced in his choice by his brother, Edward Mott Robin-
son — father of Hetty Green — we cannot say; probably the elder
brother shaped somewhat the choice of Atmore. For many
years he was identified with the finance of South Kingston, and
founded the Bank of Wakefield.

Mr. Robinson in character was quaint and interesting.

Bishop Clark of the Episcopal Church was a close personal
friend of Mr. Robinson, and when visiting Wakefield in his cleri-
cal capacity, often made his home with his friend. These occa-
sions were opportunities for long discussions on religious themes.

6o THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Mr. Robinson upheld the Quaker views, often writing sermons
which were deHvered from the village pulpit and afterward dis-
cussed with the townspeople, they not knowing their author.

Notwithstanding his retirement, Atmore Robinson was an
exceptionally well-posted man and, like all of the Robinsons,
showed a strong tendency to letters. Without question, he was
an important factor in the progress of South Kingston. He died
August 2, 1890, leaving a family. His sons, James and George
H., are well known in the business and social world, especially
the name of George H. Robinson, a member of the firm of
Gorham & Company, silversmiths.

HETTY (ROBINSON) GREEN

BY

AIrs. Herbert Turrell

Because of an acute sense of personal responsibility, we of
this day and generation are too inclined to be prejudiced, either
for or against an individual, without the proper sort of data on
which to base our judgments.

To the individual who demands facts upon which to estab-
lish their opinions, the following statement in reference to a fore-
most woman of the century, whose private history is so little
known, is refreshing.

(From the New York City press of May, 1906, following
San Francisco disaster.) "The city treasury, as is known to
financiers, is governed by a remarkable system of law which
forces it to borrow for ten months in the year.

"With the aid of Mrs. Hetty Green, the richest woman in
America, Controller Metz has been enabled to beat the financiers
of Wall street and save the city thousands upon thousands of
dollars.

"When the city treasury was in dire need of immediate funds,
Mrs. Green had broken the market. Interest rates tumbled be-
cause she refused to press the city; when the Wall street banks

HETTY (ROBINSON) GREEN 6i

were demanding liigh rates, she charged the lowest possible rate
of interest.

" 'She is a grand little woman." said Deputy Chamberlaia
Campbell. 'We can always rely on her. If she has the money
when we need it, we can get it from her.' "

A few years ago, Mrs. Green was asked to tell the world,
especially to advise young women, how she — a woman — devel-
oped her wonderful genius for finance. She first gives us a very
tender picture of her invalid father, to whom she was devotedly
attached, Edward Mott Robinson, once so active in the whaling
industries of New Bedford, Mass., but then in the prime of
mature manhood, stricken.

When a young woman, it fell to her lot to fill a son's place
to a helpless father. The ships of Edward Robinson touched at
many ports, and it was necessary for him to know the credit of
the world, and his daughter Hetty was called upon to advise
him on these points. This necessitated constant research, and
from day to day the two together would read the reports of the
world's finance. Thus, at the period of life when the brain is
active and receptive, and with an inherited tendency to finance,
Hetty Robinson accumulated a knowledge far and beyond that
of many financiers of her day. As his feebleness increased, in-
terfering with his own activity, he leaned on his devoted daughter
more and more to keep in touch with his investments. Summed
up, her advices were: "Choose your vocation in life; let no op-
portunity pass for knowing, in its minutest detail, all that con-
cerns its interest; take infinite pains to become informed, and
keep busy."

On the death of Edward Mott Robinson, his daughter Hetty
inherited his large fortune, estimated at several millions. His
son, Isaac H., having died in infancy, Hetty was his only living
child to whom to bequeath his accumulated fortune, in which she
had been an important factor.

Can we not understand, in the very nature of things, that
inheriting a large fortune from the industries of her father as a
nucleus, combined with her marvelous knowledge of finance,
Hetty Robinson must have become what she is to-day, one of
the foremost living financiers ?

Her simple tastes and habits are not due to any studied plan
■of economv, or to be conspicuous in anv wav, but are attributable

62 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

to the fact that, born of strict Puritan ancestors, she has inherited
no luxurious tastes, and, as a girl, had no time to form extrava-
gant habits or to follow prevailing fashion in dress or in living;
her habits are entirely in keeping with her birth and breeding.

When away from business cares, which is extremely rare,
and with relatives — social life must be sacrificed, and no doubt on
this side her character is undeveloped — Mrs. Green is compan-
ionable and attractive. If she knows of the world's criticism
(which is doubtful), she has more than enough common sense
and humor to appreciate inconsistencies and jealous criticism.
Few women could endure the ridicule to which she is subjected
without an abiding purpose in life; she is too busy to call a halt
to answer her critics, were she inclined to do so.

Hetty (Robinson) Green from young girlhood has never
drifted, but has set her sails straight for port, and we can be con-
fident that such a man or woman will not miss the mark, nor
have an unworthy one.

A history is yet to be written of this phenomenal woman,
certainly one of the greatest in virility and dominance of charac-
ter of Rowland Robinson's descendants, if not one of the greatest
Americans of Colonial pedigree.

MORTON ROBINSON, M.D.

BY

Mrs. Herbert Turre^^l

Dr. Alexander Wilder, a distinguished man in the educa-
tional world, said on the death of Dr. Robinson: "Permit me to
pay a tribute to the memory of a man whom I knew but to
esteem, and whose career was an honor to his family, his social
and professional circle, the city where he spent so many years
of his life, and the State in which he was born."

Morton Robinson was the son of Thurston Robinson and of
Sarah Waterman Perry, and born in South Kingston, R. I., March
10, 1825. He received early instruction as was common at that

MORTON ROBINSON, M. D. 63

time and was a student at the Wakefield Academy. He inherited
the family trait for active professional life, and began the study
of medicine at the earliest opportunity and took his degree in

1854.

In the native village of Morton Robinson lived the Sweet
family, famous for their surgical skill. When Morton was a
young man, one of his companions was Jonathan R. Sweet, a boy
who astonished the natives with his wonderful ability in setting
fractured limbs. No stray animal was safe; Jonathan Sweet was
looking for stray animals of all sorts, and if thev were missing for
a few weeks, it was because the young fellow was trying his hand
at simple fractures, compound fractures, dislocations, etc. Not
only did he become skilled in bone setting, but his knowledge
and use of simple herbs was remarkable. No time for school!
When Dr. Robinson called Jonathan from his native village to
join him in the practice of medicine, he could scarcely write his
own name. Under the careful tuition of Dr. Robinson, Dr.
Sweet obtained a degree in surgery, which qualified him to prac-
tice his profession legitimately and reap the fame, as a bone setter,
he so richly deserved. Until Dr. Sweet's death, which occurred
several years before that of Dr. Robinson, these two men were
inseparable. Unlike in every taste and accomplishment, except
that of their profession, they seemed always to be in perfect har-
mony, due, no doubt, to the remarkable kindness in the disposi-
tions of both men.

Dr. Wilder says of Dr. Robinson: "He was a careful as
well as faithful physician, eager to gain all possible knowledge to
assist him in his profession; he possessed great original powers,
and was as acute as independent in his views on all subjects."

Before Newark, N. J., had a hospital, the Pennsylvania Rail-
road Company engaged the firm of Sweet & Robinson to attend
to all accidents in that city, and when the Central Railroad of
New Jersey was built, they were engaged by this road as well.
The reputation of these men extended throughout the State, and
the successful treatment of cancer by Dr. Robinson became so
well known, victims of this horrible disease from distant States
sought his help.

Dr. Robinson in his profession displayed the skill and ver-
satility peculiar to the Perry family. The following is an ex-
ample: Dr. Sweet's son was thrown from his horse while riding,

^4 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

and killed. His body was dragged for some distance over a
cobbled pavement and badly mutilated; especially, the head and
face were beyond recognition. This boy was a great favorite of
Dr. Robinson's, and his death was a terrible shock to him. Not-
withstanding the emotion he must have felt, he so carefully re-
stored the head and face with wax, even to imitating the freckles,
so perfectly that the distracted mother never knew the actual
■conditions.

Dr. Robinson would weep like a woman (or hunter) over the
misfortunes of poor Rip Van Winkle, or over a sick dog — but
in cases calling for the greatest emotion his nerves were like iron.
When the Italians were first brought to this country as laborers
to any extent, many located in the rapidly growing city of New-
ark, N. J. As a student, Dr. Robinson became interested in them
immediately, and in time, because of his loving service, they called
him "padre." The poor Italians knew that Dr. Robinson would
give their sick attention and counsel them in their peculiar diffi-
culties.

Dr. Robinson's office was located in that part of the city by
which hundreds of mechanics passed to and from their work, and
although a man who, in personal appearance as well as intel-
lectually and morally, was greatly their peer, he was as humble
as any poor laborer who passed his door. The poor women,
compelled to work at heavy machinery, as many women in New-
ark are, in the many industries for which this city is noted, coun-
seled with him as with a father. At one time the laboring people,
in spite of protest, nominated him for Mayor. His 7vas not a
■zvinning party!

When the Civil War broke out he promptly offered his serv-
ices to the State, and for some months was employed as medical
examiner of recruits. In June, 1863, he went to the front as
first assistant surgeon of the 37th Regiment of New Jersey Volun-
teers.

An old army man recently met the daughter of Dr. Robin-
son, and like many of these old heroes, "an infinitesimal of war,
a passer at the last hour, standmg in the twilight of the tomb, and
lialf borne away at certain times by the deep pulsations of eter-
nity," told the stories of "war times" as if he were actually listen-
ing for Reveille. Without either knowing, altogether, of whom
lie spoke, he said: "I tell you, the worst was at Petersburg;

MORTON ROBINSON, M. D.

THE BEACH — NARRAGANSETT, R. I.

INDIAN ROCK — NARRAGANSETT, R. I.

ELIZABETH ROBINSON

MAIN STREET — KINGSTON, R. I.

MRS. HETTY ROHIXSOX CKEEX

GILBERT STUARTS BIRTHPLACE

SYLVESTER ROBINSON

GEORGE C. ROBINSON

MORTON ROBINSON, M. D. 65

many a poor fellow fell into the ditches filled with mud; how it
did rain! And the worst of it was they were hard to get hold
of. But I tell you, we had a surgeon in our regiment, long legged
from the hips and over six feet tall (his legs looked as though
they were on hinges), with a bony jaw and a set face; he pulled
many a poor fellow out and took him to his own tent. I saw
him splashing, over knee-deep in mud rmd water to reach one of
our boys, with shells bursting all around him. One hit his tent,
and, as if the Almighty meant to help him, instead of bursting,
burrowed into the ground. I tell you, if that shell had burst, we
would have lost one of the best men in the whole army; how we
loved him! Lots of the poor wounded fellows got well."

Something of this was sounding familiar to the listener, and
she said, "Who w-as your surgeon?" "Why, Dr. Robinson of
Newark." The daughter took the old soldier by the hand — now
a poor, feeble fellow, with nothing but his memories to keep
alive an interest in the world about him, and said, "my father."

In 1854 cholera visited New York. Dr. Robinson, hearing
the voice of duty, left his bride of a few weeks to do what re-
quires more nerve and integrity of purpose than many physicians
display.

As a student of the world's history, Morton Robinson accu-
mulated an exceptional amount of knowledge, for his day, of the
Jewish race, having obscure data at his tongue's end; he con-
tributed to magazines and newspapers, from time to time, the
result of his research ; he was a contributor to several medical
periodicals also and, still adhering to the proclivities of his youth
— when he was called "the handsome fisherman" — that of fishing
and gunning, wrote valuable scientific articles for publications
devoted to these sports.

Dr. Robinson was a direct descendant of John Howland
and Elizabeth Tilley — Pilgrims — and through his mother. Sarah
Waterman Perry, was allied to the famous Perry family. He
was also a lineal descendant of many distinguished families of
New England, names still conspicuous as among those of the
best Americans.

In 1854 Morton Robinson was married to Ann Eliza Col-
lins, who is a descendant of the noted Collins family of Xcw
Jersey. He had very little interest in the social life of his city,
but delighted to gather about him groups of admirers, eager to

66 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

hear his brilliant dissertation on some favorite theme. While a
profoundly religious man, he was exceedingly reticent in speak-
ing on a subject so personal, except it were in connection with
his interest in the Jewish people. Many distinguished men were
his intimate friends, and yet he preferred a comparatively obscure
life with his little coterie to any social advantages his friends
could ofYer. To his family, Dr. Robinson often seemed austere
and exacting, so strict were his ideas of a man's obligation to his
community.

About three weeks before his death he expressed a wish to
see his native land once more. As physician, he knew that he
could not live longer than a few weeks at the most; in fact, he
told within a few hours when the disease should prove fatal. If
he could fish and smell the salt air of Narragansett once more, he
would ask nothing further of life. By a passionate love for his
native land, he was braced to do what seemed to his family, who
had watched his years of suffering, an heroic undertaking.

A tent suitably equipped for an invalid was pitched on the
shore of Salt Lake (now Narragansett Lake) near Point Judith.
Here he could see across the bay and hear the roar of the surf as
it pounded onto the rocky coast. Here also his kinsfolk, for
whom he felt a devoted attachment, could visit him, and for the
last time probably, hear him discourse on his favorite themes.
One of Dr. Robinson's theories, for the first time verified, accord-
ing to the writer's best knowledge, was that after a great Seis-
mic disturbance on this continent the Gulf Stream should show
serious affection. The reader will remember that a few weeks
following the California earthquake, navigators in the Gulf of
Mexico reported that for the first time, so far as known, the
waters were showing phenomenal characteristics. Instead of fol-
lowing the course usual at that time of the year, the current was
flowing in an entirely opposite direction. This was according to
the theory of Dr. Robinson, and the writer believes that, were it
not for his modesty in these matters, he could have given to the
scientific world valuable material.

By moving in slow, easy stages, with the aid of carriages,
litters and rolling chairs, he succeeded in reaching his tent,
from which his family never expected to see him return
alive. A few days after h,e was settled, a September gale raged
along the Narr^agansett coast. "Did he flinch?" Xot he! His

GILBERT STUART 67

eyes snapped and his ringers tickletl to get hold of the Hne and
hook, for the good fishing wliich was bound to come after the
storm, and yet too sick to leave his bunk. His daughter visited
his tent one day, and there lay the sick ni^n, like a great hulk,
but with a fish-line iii his hand, nicely adjusted according to
direction, to catch the faintest nibble; v. hen the fish had good
hold, he directed his valet (a man of nerve) to help him "pull the
fellow in," he knew it was a big one.

Who would believe that here lay a dying man, never free
from intense pain for a moment. Every bone and muscle in his
strong face set with the intensest purpose, and yet. a look in the
eye told the story — he would live or die, but he would once again
come into communion with the spirits of his youth; if to die, then
with but little care to his dear ones, to be laid to rest in his native
soil and by his fathers, whom he so noblv loved.

The family persuaded Dr. Robinson after a week or so to
return to his home in Xewark, not one but feeling they were
tearing him from his real home, where he had hoped to die, with
the smell of the salt spray in his nostnls and the mist from the
sea dampening his white locks. After a few days, quietly, con-
fidently, he died, with a last request that he be laid in the bury-
ing ground at Wakefield.

His last words bearing upon his life were: "T have made
man\- mistakes, which I can leave to the judgment of my Creator,
but I never remember to have committed an innnoral act."

Dr. Morton Robinson died November 3, 1893. He was in
direct line from Rowland Robinson and Mary Allen.

"If it be well to be well descended, he had a fortunate begin-
ning and liberal endowment."

GILBERT STUART

Gilbert Stuart, the celebrated portrait painter, was a
native of Narragansett. His father came from Scotland, and here
married an Anthony, one of the Anthony family, allied to the
familv of Robinson.

68 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Gilbert was born near Pettaquamscutt (Narrow River) where
liis father lived. In 1775 he went to England and became a
pupil of Benjamin West. He spent several years in Ireland, and
then returned to his native country for the express purpose of
painting the portrait of General Washington.

The history of this famous man of Narragansett may be
found in the following histories: Knapp's American Literature
and Dunlap's History of the Art of Design.

GEORGE ROBINSON

OF WATERTOWN, MASS.,

AND

WILLIAM ROBINSON

OF DORCHESTER, MASS.

BV

Charles Nutt.

Editor of the "Worcester vSpy," Worcester, Mass.

Y mother's maternal grandmother was a Robinson.
I married a Robinson. ]\Iy ancestor was George
Robinson of Watertown; my wife's was William
Rpbinson of Cambridge. My great-grandmother's
name was Patience. I like that name. When
some of the younger members of this bunch of
y^lN^^ Robinson families have occasion to use a female

^1^ name for christening, desiring, of course, a name

somewhat uncommon, because there are so many
Robinsons, I hope they will have Patience. Within about a
fortnight such an occasion has come to the household of my
wife's brother, and I have some hope that there will be another
Patience Robinson.

I have not been married long enough to make up my mind
as to which of these Robinson families had the better blood.
Later I should be in a position to give the descendants of either
George or William some useful information. I have been mar-
ried long enough, however, to have five children, in whom the
blood of these two Robinson lines are commingled. Even the
neighbors approve of the mixture, so I can give my testimony
safely in praise of this new strain of Robinsons.

Your good secretary asked me to write a paper on the
descendants of William Robinson. That, I must remind you, is
my wife's ancestor, and while I looked up that line a few years
ago to see if I could find anything suitable for use as an emer-
gency argument during a Caudle curtain discussion, I feel fully

70 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

as able to write about the no less distinguished Robinson family
to which I myself am related by consanguinity, if you please.

I hope there is nothing against the George Robinson crowd.
I found nothing. They were distinguished both for poverty and
piety, and one dear old great, great aunt died in the poorhouse.

The dread of the poorhouse is not, however, confined to the
descendants of George Robinson. It is a characteristic of New
Kngland as pronounced as the New England conscience that we
liear so much about. The William Robinson family. I tell my
wife, is no less distinguished by poverty than the George Rob-
inson family. I don't know about the piety. Perhaps it is
against the rules here to talk religion. I find in my researches
fewer Unitarians than I should have been pleased to find. In
fact all the individuals in both families, except those of the
present generation, were orthodox. But whether Unitarian or
Orthodox, all of us to-day I hope are Puritans, modified, re-
formed and refined to suit the demands of our own times.

We should never meet together without a tribute to the
virtues of our forefathers, to their courage in settling a new coun-
try, to their love of God. their clean lives and their republican
form of government.

A paper to be read at a meeting like this should not, I sup-
pose, be like those chapters of the Bible which one reads only
when obliged to in order to make a complete reading of the
entire volume, so I have sent my paper in the form of dates to
that painstaking and persistent Robinson who is gathering our
archives and digesting dates for his daily food. I am glad that
I could supply a few vacant places in his records. I spent two
days, I think, on a big bunch of blanks he sent me. Only a man
of infinite learning and patience could handle successfully the
vital statistics of a group of prolific and growing families that
you represent. I haven't met him. but I know the finger marks
of genius in his genealogical work. I know what it takes to
write genealogy. I have just completed a little book of my own.
You should take ofif your hats to Charles E. Robinson when-
ever his name is mentioned.

While I am speaking of the records, I want to urge every
member of this association to do more than merely send to the
historian the information he requires. I believe that every
American familv should get together and hereafter keep records

GEORGE AND WILLIAM ROBINSON 71

of their ancestors. As far as possible, each family should have
in a book the record of ancestors in all the lines back, certainly
as far as the immigrants. I found the task of getting the infor-
mation for my family delightful and educating. The work is
not complete, and it never can be. Some missing date may be
found. Some missing name revealed by study and research or
mere luck may open up a new field for investigation and discov-
ery. So much is in print now that genealogy is not the slow,
costly and discouraging work it was even one generation ago.
Starting wath the names and dates kept in the old Bible of your
grandparents, it is a simple matter to trace your ancestral lines
back to the first comers — back to the period 1620 to 1650.

I think it worth while to know what blood flows in our
veins and wdiat blood does not flow there. I have nothing to say
to the man or w-oman who devotes attention to some distin-
guished line to the exclusion of others. I have nothing to say
to those who investigate ancestors to discover claims to property
or relation with famous men. We owe the same debt to the
obscure and humble as to the famous and wealthy ancestors.
After all. the family average of virtue and ability, and even of
property, is no greater in one than another of these grand old
New England families.

It seems to me rather barbaric not to know one's forefather.
We show shameful ignorance of the history of our country not
to know where our ancestors settled and built their homes, where
their children were born, where the family graves are located,
where the men fought the Indians. The Sons and Daughters
of the Revolution are doing for revolutionary ancestors what
they and you and I ought to do for those brave men and women
who preceded and follow^ed the heroes of '76.

If we take pride in our race, if we are proud to be x\mericans
and glory in the deeds and men of New England, why not know
why? Why not know the names and birthplaces of our own fore-
fathers? Why not be able to give documentary proof, not only
that we had ancestors in the Revolution, but that we had fifty or a
hundred ancestors in the Massachusetts Bay colony? Why not
be able to point out the spot in Braintree. A\'atertown. Salem or
Sudbury, Plymouth or Deerfield. where the first, the second, the
third and other generations of our forefathers fought the good
fight that the Revolution might be fought successfully, that the

72 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

America of the twentieth century might lead the world? I pay
no greater tribute to my ancestors at Plymouth, at Dedham, or
at Londonderry, than to my father who led a colored regiment
in the war for the Union, or to his father who did humble service
in the second war with England. A chain is no stronger than
the weakest link. Get the chain of your ancestry as complete
as possible, not to gratify your pride, but to obey that command-
ment that we Americans have never obeyed in the fullest sense:
Honor Thy Father and Mother.

I hope the homesteads of the first Robinsons, anyhow, will
be suitably marked whenever they are identified. I know that
the present owners of the old farms will be glad to consent.
And every Robinson descendant in the future will feel more
direct and personal interest in his race and the Robinson fore-
fathers if he can visit their former home, see the stone walls they
built, the very land they cleared, and, perhaps, some traces of
the dwelling house itself.. We love New England more, I think,
because nearly every field was wrested from the arms of the
forests by the hands of our own ancestors.

It was but yesterday. We are not an ancient people. The
land is still in its early youth. What is a hundred years? We
ought to know more of the early towns as well as of the men
and women. Two hundred or three hundred years should not
obscure the memory or an ancestor.

It is right for us to leave behind us better records for the
future than our fathers kept for us. They relied too much on
memory. They depended on the elders to remember what their
fathers should have recorded.

Where are the heirlooms of the earlier generations? They
are very rare. Things of value like silver and fine furniture,
books and utensils, were not numerous even in the families of
the well-to-do. These things wore out. They were not pre-
served for the sake of their associations. Each generation has
worn out or destroyed the mementos and chattels of the preced-
ing. We are doing the same thing to-day, whenever an old
relative dies and an old home is broken up. Our own houses
are too full, and often the whole furnishings, all the household
goods, are sent to the auction rooms to furnish the homes of
various Italian folks and others who esteem usefulness above
antiquity and cheapness above all else.

GEORGE AND WILLIAM ROBINSON 73

I have another suggestion to make, and in this case as in
the other I have followed my own advice before I have offered
it to others. Let one room be devoted to the memorials and
furnished with heirlooms as far as possible. Whether it be the
sitting room, dining room, guest room (I ought to say spare
room), whether parlor or library, get together the scattered
things you inherited or received from your parents or remoter
ancestors. Put the braided rugs of your grandmother on the
hardwood floor of your villa. They will not look out of place
when the highboy and spinning wheel are put in place. Hang
the oval picture frames that look so out of place with your wed-
ding gifts of gilt and oak. Frame the Revolutionary commis-
sions and old letters with glass on both sides of the paper. Hunt
the garret over for the old samplers and quaint family registers.
Polish up the old furniture you had put in the attic because it
looked inartistic when side by side with the new piano.

Keep apart the old and the new. Such a room should
contain the precious family relics and mementos, the old wedding
gowns, Bibles and books. It will prove an unfailing source of
interest and occupation. Additions will suggest themselves, and
changes will be made necessary as new heirlooms come.

Label your antiques. Label everything. Let the grand-
daughters of the future, when showing the things you have left,
be able to tell their age and some of their history. It is especially
wise and considerate to write on the back of every photograph
at least the name of the person. If this custom of concentrating
the antiques and heirlooms became general, what an added in-
terest for visitors all New England homes would present! What
a vast number of lost and forgotten treasures would be brought
to light!

I expect a reprimand from your worthy secretary for writing
so little about the famous William and his own progeny, but I
shall ask you to remember that I am living in the same house
with six descendants of William, while on the other hand my
wife is living with six descendants of George. That is six of
one and half a dozen of the other.

Now then, would it be discreet to choose for the subject of
my paper the descendants of one rather than the descendants of
the other?

II.

THE FATHERS. WHERE WERE THEY?

BV

Mrs. Ann Augusta Lakin

Bennington, N. H.

HA\'E often asked this question, but like an echo,
it comes back to me. Where zvere they? The first
in my Hne of ancestry that I have any knowledge
of was Peter Robinson, yet it is but little that is
known of him. We know that he was twice
married and by the first marriage had two sons,
Simeon and Douglas. Who their mother was, or
where they were living at this time, is unknown
to any of the descendants. It is thought by some
that he was then living at Douglas, Mass., but there is no men-
tion in the history of the town of any one by the name of Robin-
son, still records show there were Robinsons living in Douglas
and adjoining towns. '

That Peter was once living in Douglas is shown by the
record of the "Marriage Intention" of Peter Robinson and'
Rebekah Perkins, May i8, 1752. No record of the marriage
has been found, neither do we know how long he remained there
or whither he went. That he afterwards lived in what is now
Hudson, N. H., appears on the assessors' records of the town.

By the second marriage there were several children, but I
do not know the order of their birth. Their names were Amos,
Andrew. John, Peter, Rachel, Polly and Sarah. Several of the
descendants of Andrew, Peter and Sarah I knew personally.

Andrew Robinson married Sarah Eastman, and lived for a
time in Greenfield, N. H. Sarah Robinson married John
Grimes. The history of Hancock, N. H., makes mention of this
man as the first settler in Hancock. He also resided for a time
in Greenfield, N. H.

THE FATHERS. WHERE WERE THEY? 75

Peter Robinson, Jr.. came from Hudson, X. H., and settled
in Antrim, N. H., about 1799. Some of his descendants are
living there at the present time. He had three sons and one
daughter. Of this family, I became acquainted with one of the
sons (Reuben) who often visited at my grandfather's.

Peter Robinson, Jr., was a soldier in the War of the Revolu-
tion. He was in the battle at Bennington, and heard Gen.
Stark's -famous address to his soldiers: —

"Boys, there are the redcoats. They are ours to-day, or
Mollic Stark this night zvill sleep a zvidow.'^

Of the two oldest sons of Peter Robinson, Sr.. Simeon re-
mained in Hudson and died there. Of his descendants I know
but little. One of his sons. Rev. Isaac Robinson, was settled
over the church in Stodard, N. H. Here he spent his life in the
service of the Master and lived to preach his half-century ser-
mon. His wife was insane man_\- years. They had one son and
three daughters. The son died at the age of sixteen years.
Two of the daughters became insane, the youngest dying in the
Insane Asylum at Concord, N. H., where she had been confined
for many years. One of the daughters married a physician, I
think, and lived in New York. Fearing insanity, she seldom
made long visits at her father's, remarking "she would be as
insane as the other members of the family if she remained with
them." I am under the impression that she finally became
insane.

Rev. Isaac Robinson was a self-educated man. So great
was his thirst for knowledge that when at work in the field plow-
ing he would fasten his book to the plow handles so that he
might read and study while at work. He applied for admission
to college, but upon being examined was told that his education
was equal to any of their teachers, and it would of no use for
him to enter. He was a frequent visitor at my grandfather's,
and I knew him and members of his family. Often, when a
child, I have sat hours and heard him and my grandfather talk
of their relatives in Hudson. Could I have known then the value
these things would have been to future generations. I might now
be able to give you a complete history of this branch of the
family.

Another one of the descendants of Simeon Robinson with
whom I was acquainted was his grandson. David, son of David

76 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Robinson and a nephew of Rev. Isaac Robinson. He was a
merchant in Nashua, in what was then called Belvidere. I spent
a part of one winter in his family, attending school at the Nashua
Literary Institution. He was twice married. His first wife was
Sophia Caldwell. She died in September, 1842. He married in
1844, for his second wife, Lydia Huntoon of Unity, N. H. She
died May 27, 1862, leaving one son, who married Emily Jane
Marshall of Nashua. They had two children, Willie F., who
resides in Nashua, and Lena, who died August 3, 1873.

In 1784, Douglas Robinson, brother of Simeon, and my
great-grandfather, came with his son Samuel, then a lad of eleven
years, from Hudson, N. H., following marked trees until they
arrived at a place known at that time as "Society Land," but now
Greenfield, N. H. Here they spent the winter. Later, Samuel
Robinson bought land and removed his family from Hudson to
Greenfield. He was married in Buxton, Me., November 12,
1772, to Sarah Haseltine, who was born in Haverhill, Mass.,
December 31, 1749, a daughter of Timothy and Anna (Hancock »
Haseltine. Both Mr. and Mrs. Robinson spent the remainder
of their life on the farm in Greenfield. He died there March 8,
1821, and she on the 6th of January, 1833. They had eight
children. The eldest, Samuel Robinson (my grandfather), mar-
ried December 28, 1797, Olive Austin, a daughter of Jonathan
and Hannah (Charles) Austin, born in Methuen, Mass., Novem-
ber 21, 1774. He was bom in Nottingham West, September 6,
^773- and settled on a farm near the paternal home, where he
died March 12, i860. His wife died in the month of June, 1864.
There were eight children, three sons and five daughters; all are
now dead. The children were:

1. Hannah, b. Dec. 19, 1798; d. an infant.

2. Sarah, b. Sept. 8, 1800; d. at Chaua, 111., March 24. 1875;
mar. John Ober.

3. Isaac, b. Jan. 15, 1802; d. at the age of fifteen years.

4. Miles, b. March 6, 1803: d. at Greenfield. N. H., in 1871;
mar. Almira Bailey.

5. Hannah, b. May 10, 1804; d. at Greenfield in 1870; mar.
James S. Burtt.

6. Warren, b. Nov. 11, 1806; d. at the age of ten years.

7. Rhoda, b. March 11, 1808; d. at Greenfield, N. H., in
1876; mar. Samuel Fisher.

THE FATHERS. WHERE WERE THEY? 77

8. Anna Hancock, b. May 15, 1810; d. at Hancock (now
Bennington), N. H., in 1869; mar. David Dale in 1837, and had
one child, Ann Augusta, who mar. in 1868 Taylor D. Lakin,
who d. at Greenfield, N. H., in 1898, leaving three children:
Winfred Taylor, who mar, Luella G. Merrill and resides at North
Chelmsford, Mass.; Mary Ann Augusta, who mar. George M.
Foote, and resides at North Chelmsford, Mass., and Lilla Dale,
who mar. Archibald L. Rogers, and resides at Greenfield, N. H.

The second child was Moses Robinson, who settled on a
farm adjoining his father's and died in 1841. He married Lucy
Burnham. They had nine children, all now dead.

Benjamin Robinson, the third child, settled on the bank of
the Contookook River, near his brothers. He married Esther
Greeley, an aunt of Horace Greeley, founder of the New York
Tribune. He was the owner of mills here, which later were car-
ried away by a freshet. They had eleven children, all born here
in Greenfield, N. H. Two died with spotted fever in 1815. The
others lived to be quite aged and one, I think, is living now (1904)
in Iowa. After the loss of his mills he sold the farm and lived
for a few years in Hancock. N. H. From there he removed to
Alstead, N. H., where he remained until age compelled him to
lay aside all work and seek a home with his children. He died
in Manchester, Wis., December i, 1857.

William Robinson, the fourth child, settled on a farm just
across the river in Hancock, N. H., where he remained during
life. He died April 15, 1849. He married Elizabeth Fletcher.
They had five children, all now dead except one, born October
28, 1808, who has now reached the age of ninety-six. A grand-
son is now living on the home farm. Two railroads cross each
other near his buildings.

Elizabeth Robinson, the fifth child (there is no date given
of her birth) died in 1808, was married on her death-bed to Elijah
Wilson.

Douglas Robinson, the sixth child, born in 1785, married
Hannah Butler. They lived on the home farm with his parents.
He died of spotted fever in 1815. There were four children born
to them, all now dead, the last one dying recentl}- in California,
at the age of ninety-three.

Sally, the seventh child and a twin sister of Douglas, mar-
ried Daniel Gould, resided in Greenfield. N. H.. and died there

78 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

in 1841. They had eight children. One is still living and one
died the 4th of this month (August, 1904) at the age of eighty-
three.

John Robinson, the eighth and youngest of the family, was
born in 1790. He married Elizabeth McLaughlin and settled in
Hancock, N. H. They had twelve children, all born in Han-
cock. He removed to Oppenheim, N. Y., where he died July
21, 1868. The children, so far as I know, are nearly all dead.

The descendants of Douglas Robinson are scattered from
the Granite Hills of New Hampshire to the Rocky Mountains,
and even to the Pacific Coast. Only three are left in the neigh-
borhood where he first settled. One each in the fourth, fifth
and sixth generations.

Thus have I given you a brief outline of this branch of the
Robinson families to which I belong, but in tracing back to the
first settlers I must close as I commenced. The fathers ! JJliere
zuere they?

JOHN ROBINSON

OF KITTERY AND CAPE ELIZABETH

BY

Mrs. Caroline T. (Edward R.) Barbour

John Robinson,' b. Kittery, Me., d. Mar. 11, 1771, at Cape
Elizabeth, m. Dec. 10, 1722, at Kittery.

Sarah Jordan, b. 169S, at Kittery, d. Nov. 23, 1786, at
Cape Elizabeth.

HE annals of the historic town of Cape Elizabeth
contain names no more prominently identified
with her past than those of Jordan and Robin-
son. During the eighteenth century two families
of the last named settled within the limits of the
town, a third in Falmouth, and a fourth in
the adjacent town of Windham; each of which
had one, or more whose given name was
John; but the first to come to this locality was
John Robinson of Kittery.

From the pages of church and state the few scattered
threads that have been collected may serve some searcher in the
future, to weave a web of interesting history, that will include
the great number of isolated Robinsons, who are not yet in their
proper places. The union of the two pioneer families was con-
summated December lo, 1722, by the marriage in Kittery of
John Robinson with Sarah, daughter of Samuel and grand-
daughter of Rev. Robert Jordan, whose romantic life is so viv-
idly portrayed in the "Trelawney Papers."

At Robert's death, all his landed possessions were divided
between his widow and six sons, each of whom received one
thousand acres, except Samuel. His share was eleven hundred,
to compensate for the poverty of the soil as compared with the
others. Samuel left Cape Elizabeth 1675 and settled in Kittery.
dying there 1720, and his inheritance from his father at Pond

8o THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Cove, Cape Elizabeth, was in turn divided between his widow
and three children, the youngest of whom was Sarah.

And so, when this newly wedded couple started out on life's
journey as man and wife, it was to take possession of her prop-
erty at Pond Cove.

This cove is on the easterly shore of Cape Elizabeth, about
five miles from the city of Portland — then known as Falmouth —
and near the southern extremity of the cape; deriving its name
from its proximity to Great Pond, which is some distance inland
from the sea, and its waters flowing out in a creek near by.

Their neighbors in this unsettled country were kinfolk and
old acquaintances, Noah Jordan, a nephew of Sarah's; Nathaniel
Jordan of Falmouth; John Miller from Kittery; Paul Thompson,
and not a great distance away Daniel Robinson, who in 1724
married Abigail Jordan (a cousin) in Kittery; an obligation re-
quiring all landholders to stand by each other in peace or
in war. They felled, hewed, and fashioned their log houses,
planted orchards and cleared the fields we see to-day, sloping
to the sea in verdure clad.

The ancestry of John Robinson has been a subject of much
study and labor. To substantiate family tradition is, in some
instances, an arduous undertaking, and so in this we authenticate
nothing. Mr. Nathan Goold, Portland's historian and a de-
scendant of John Robinson, gives permission to quote him as
follows :

"John Robinson who married Sarah Jordan was no doubt
son of John the tanner, or John who worked on Ft. William
Henry at Great Island in 1723, selling articles to the Ft. as late
as 1744. Perhaps they were one and the same. I think our
John was a grandson of Stephen of Oyster River (Dover. N. H.).
He was received as an inhabitant Mar. i, 1666, and was a tax-
payer at Exeter, N. H., in 1662. He had a brother Jonathan,
and probably lived at Exeter and removed from there to Dover.
These Robinsons I presume to be the descendants of John Rob-
inson of Haverhill, Mass., who Savage thinks was father of
David, Jonathan and Stephen.

"John of Haverhill was the emigrant ancestor of this family
and a blacksmith by trade, living at Newbury, Mass., and in
1640 with eleven others struck the first blow toward erecting a
settlement in the woods of Pentucket (Haverhill.) They went

CELLAR OF JOHN ROBINSON HOUSE

JOSHUA KOIilNSON HOUSE

POND COVE — CAPE ELIZABETH. VIEW FROM JOHN ROBINSON HOUSE.

CLIFF AT POINT COVE

JOHN ROBINSON OF MAINE 8i

there between June ii and Oct. 7, 1640, naming the place soon
after for Haverhill, Essex Co., Eng., in honor of the birthplace
of their minister, Rev. John Ward, who came over 1641.

"The first birth in the town was a son of John Robinson
who lived three weeks. The second birth was a son of John
Robinson, also, who lived but one week. In 1645 'i^ was a
landholder there, but in 1651 he bought a house lot in Exeter,
N. H., and was entered as a citizen there in 1652.

"In Oct. 1664 he was on a committee to lay out highways.
Oct. 21, 1675, he was shot dead by the Indians, John Sampson,
Cromwell and Lmde, in ambush, the bullet passing completely
through the body. His son who was with him escaped, and
alarmed the settlers."

Presuming this to be the line of John Robinson of Kittery,
we have:

JOHN ROBINSON^ OF HAVERHILL,
EMIGRANT. SHOT BY INDIANS.

David", Stephen-, Jonathan-, of Oyster River.

John'', the tanner.

John'' of Kittery, mar. Sarah Jordan.

The family of John and Sarah Robinson were probably all
born at Pond Cove — as in the old First Parish record of bap-
tisms some are given, and the others are found on the town
books.

Mary, bap. 1728; marriage intention to Jeremiah, third son
of Col. Ezekiel and Hannah (Doane) Cushing, July 23, 1749.
Col. Cushing was a prominent man and had large interests in the
town and in Falmouth at that time. Apollos, bap. 1728.

Charles, b. July 4, 1731; Joshua, b. 1738.

Jeremiah was born October 7, 1729, and was a mariner.
He died before May 7, 1784, at Long Island, Casco Bay, leaving
five children:

Sarah, m. 1769, John Miller.

Evmice, d. unm.

Hannah, m. 1780, Stephen Tukey.

Phebe, m. 1782, Edmund Higgins of Scarboro'.

Apollos Robinson m. Elizabeth Gates, whose granddaughter
Lois (Cushing) Dunlap, became the second wife of James Russell

82 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Lowell. Apollos died July, 1843. Elizabeth died March, 1827.
Children:

Charles, d. June 3, 1797.

Nathaniel, d. February, 181 5.

Leonard, d. August, 1833.

Charles, d. May, 1823.

Of Apollos, the second child of John and Sarah Robinson,
we learn but little. He probably died unmarried. In 1757, he
with his brothers Charles and Joshua were enrolled with the
training soldiers under command of Capt. Dominicus Jordan.
We have no record of his death.

The marriage of Charles Robinson with Hannah Cushing
is recorded in 1755, but there are no known descendants from
them. In May, 1773, an account against him was sued and an
attachment placed on forty-three and one-fourth acres of land —
his part in the estate of his father John, in common and undi-
vided between him and his brother Joshua and sister Mary Cush-
ing. Apollos is not mentioned. We now come to Joshua, the
fourth child and the one from whom the Robinsons have de-
scended in a direct line from John. Being the youngest, he
naturally had the home, farm and care of the parents — and it
was probably soon after his mother's death, in 1786, that the
log house was abandoned and the present "Robinson house"
erected. This is not positively known, but the present occupant,
Mr. Charles H. Robinson, has preserved it in its ancient form*
with the old heirlooms and furnishings of a century or more ago.

Here, overlooking the cove where the storm king rules in
winter and the fleet of our nation sails proudly past on summer
seas, the ninth in descent from John^ the emigrant cherishes with
pride and afifection the handiwork of his ancestors. The cellar
of the log house John Robinson built can yet be seen, and easily
reached by a farm road leading from the highway of the present
Robinson home, back toward the forest. The illustration shows
the large granite foundation stones, still in place — surrounded by
thorn bushes, and overgrown with vines and wild flowers.

Joshua was twice married. His first wife Sarah was a
daughter probably, of John Miller, whose farm adjoined. Their
marriage occurred November 6. 1764, and she was the mother
of his ten children. When the Revolutionary War was declared,
Joshua left his fields and prepared for service, which although

JOHN ROBINSON OF MAINE 83

brief, testified to his loyalty — and is a precious legacy to hi^ many
descendants. He enlisted May 12, 1774, in Capt. David Brad-
ish's company, Col. Phinney's regiment, being thirty-six years
of age at the time.

After the death of his wife Sarah he remarried December 19,
I793> to Catharine (named in deeds Ketura) daughter of James
Maxwell of Cape Elizabeth, who survived him by several years.
He no doubt chose wisely in this marriage, as a great-grand-
daughter has in her possession the original deed given by James
Maxwell to his daughter, dated July 6, 1782, in which he leaves
her his entire property with the exception of wearing apparel —
in consideration of twenty-five years' service and affectionate
care on her part.

She was living in 1816. He died March 25, 1813, and his
son Joshua, Jr., styled Joshua 3d on legal papers (to distinguish
him from Joshua son of John of Gloucester b. 1756) had the
home farm, his wife being a niece of his stepmother, Catharine.

CH. OF JOSHUA AND (SARAH MILLEr) ROBINSON.

I. SAMUEL, b. xA.pril i, 1766, mar. Catharine Clark Dec. 4,
1788, settled in Durham, Me., 1794; died there Sept. 25, 1842.
She d. Sept. 8, 1830. Had twelve children:

1. Samuel, b. 1789, mar. Phebe Wagg. had four daughters.

2. Apollos, b. October, 1790; d. 1852, unm.

3. Joshua, b. June, 1792, d. 1877; m. Eleanor Dyer; six
children: Joshua, Frances, Martha, William, Samuel, Augustus.

4. Sarah, b. June, 1794, d. February, 1836; mar. Samuel
Stackpole.

5. Eunice, b. February, 1796, d. Sept. 22, 1876; m. William
Thomas, Jr.

6. James, b. January, 1798, d. July 29, 1873; m. Susan, dau.
of Charles Barbour of Gray. She d. Dec. 26, 1876; ten children:
William B., Betsey, Charles, Mary L., Catharine, Clarissa A.,
James, Susan E., Lewis C, Mary.

7. Jane, b. November. 1799, d. December, 1855; mar. Ed-
mund Dow.

8. Catharine, b. October, 1802, d. September, 1830; married
Joshua Mitchell.

9. Hannah, b. February, 1804, d. September, 1881; mar.
Rev. John Miller,

r

84 • THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

10. Mary, b. April 17, 1806, d. May, 1868; mar. Abner
Waterhouse.

11. William B., b. Jamiary, 1809, d. October, 1878; mar.
Huldah Dyer.

12. Charles, b. December, 181 1; mar. Pamelia Bowie.

II. SARAH, b. Feb. 25, 1768, mar. July 15, 1787, Seacomb
Jordan of Cape Elizabeth, and settled in Durham; she d. 1827;
he d. Aug. I, 1825; eight children:

1. Apollos, b. Dec. 24, 1788, d. 1827; mar. Sarah Miller;
six children.

2. Rhoda, b. , d. 1832; mar. Henry Moore; had

children.

3. Eleanor, b. , d. 1856; mar. Samuel Skinner; no

children.

4. Noah. ^

5. Rufus. I

6. Mercy. K d. young.

7. Elizabeth. |

8. Mercy. J

HI. JOHN, b. Dec. 24, 1770 (perhaps the John who in
Durham Aug. 28, 1794, mar. Mary Parker).

IV. MARY, b. March 24, 1772.

V. EUNICE, b. March 27, 1774; mar. 1793. William
Thomas.

VI. JAMES, b. July 13. 1776; mar. Sept. 11, 1800, to Sally
Mitchell.

VII. CHARLES, b. Aug. 27, 1778.

VIII. JOSHUA, JR., b. June 15, 1781; mar. Aug. 3, 1805,
Mrs. Betsey Fulton Soule, a dau. of Hannah (Maxwell) Fulton of
Topsham; widow of Bradbury Soule of Freeport and a niece of
Keturah Maxwell's. He died Nov. 11, 1866; she d. Oct. 29.
1851; seven children:

1. Apollos, b. Feb. 17. 1806; d. unm. May 31, 1873.

2. Agnes M., b. April 12, 1807; d. unm. February, 1886.

3. Charles, b. Aug. 11, 1809; mar. Sept. 27, 1836, Emily
Cobb. He d. Nov. i, 1888; she d. ; six children: Wil-
liam C, Elizabeth F., Rebecca C, Emma L., Charles H. (present
owner of the old home); Mary A., d. 1892.

4. William, b. June 5, 181J, mar. Mary A. Wescott; d.
Lewiston, June 10. 1881; two children: Josephine, Marietta.

JOHN ROBINSON OF MAINE 85

5. Lucinda, b. Sept. 5, 1813; d. unm.

6. James Maxwell, b. Dec. 29, 1815; mar. Nov. i, 1842,
Elizabeth Wescott; he d. July 26, 1889; two children: Anger, d.
inf., E. Malcom.

7. Rhoda, b. April 22, 1819; mar. Mr. Brainerd; d. in Bos-
ton; one child, Alma.

IX. JANE, b. April 26, 1783.

X. HANNAH, b. March 28, 1785; mar. Dec. i, 1803,
Thomas Wilson.

Reference has been made to other Robinson families living
here during the period of which we write. Daniel, who married
at Kittery 1724 Abigail Jordan and came to the cape soon after,
was perhaps a brother of John's. In 1757 Daniel Jr. and Jere-
miah were enrolled with the training soldiers, and some of
Daniel's descendants went to Durham with the Robinson emigra-
tion. In 1840, a Daniel Robinson was living there at the age
of eighty-six years. These may trace their descent from him.

FROM DURHAM RECORDS:

Ann Robinson mar. Samuel Jordan of Cape Elizabeth. He
was b. 1753.

Jedediah Robinson and Polly Nichols mar. in Durham Nov.
6, 1794.

Conjecture has failed, equally with investigation, in regard
to John Robinson, b. Cape E. 1752, d. Webster, Me., March 28.
1840; mar. Cape E. Feb. 29, 1776, Martha Jordan, b. 1756, d.
Webster, Oct. i, 1848. They lived at the cape until 1790, when
they removed to W.: two children born at Cape Elizabeth:

I. Martha, b. 1778, mar. James Jordan.

*2 John, b. 1785, mar. 1798 Lucy Standiford; John d. 1845;
six children. He was at one time a preacher, and has descend-
ants in this country, but frequent requests for information have
elicited no response.

Was he a son of John and Mehitable (Woodbury) Robinson,
or a descendant of Daniel ?

Capt. John Robinson of Gloucester, Mass., who settled here
at the time of his marriage to Mehitable Woodbury — in 1738 —
and assuming that his eldest son, Ebenezer, was b. about 1740,

•Jordan Memorial gives his birth and mar., but ro date of latter. Town records
give date of mar., but not of birth. Evidently a mistake in one, and perhaps both.

-86 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN POLK

there is an interim of sixteen years between his birth and that of
the two other sons, w^hose births are recorded as Joshua, b. 1756,
Samuel, b. 1758, with no other children. Among so many un-
accounted for, it seems probable that a number of those whose
names follow may be found to be their children, and others, of
Daniel and Abigail (Jordan) Robinson.

FROM CAPE ELIZABETH RECORDS:

Mar. July 17, 1748, David Robinson and Rebecca Randall.

Mar. Nov. 22, 1754, Jedediah Robinson and Elizabeth
Simonton.

Mar. int. March 31, 1753, Rebecca Robinson of Falmouth
and Thomas Edgecomb of Biddeford.

Mar. in 1765, Elizabeth Robinson and Joseph Jordan (he b.

1750.)

Mar. int. July 13, 1771, Elizabeth Robinson and John Gat-
chell of Royalstown.

Mar. Sept. 2, 1776, John Robinson and Molly Skillings.

Mar. int. Oct. 12, 1782, Sarah Robinson and Josiah Alden
of Gorham; descendants living there.

Mar. March 10, 1785, Mary Robinson and James Miller.

Mar. Feb. 18, 1787, Joshua Robinson and Mary, dau. of
John and Isabella Jordan.

Mar. March 5, 1797, Stephen Robinson and Catharine Saw-
yer of Cape Elizabeth. Stephen removed to Gardiner (?) Had
four children:

Mary, b. Oct. 27, 1797.

Joanna, b. May 6, 1799.

Hannah, b. May 13, 1802.

Betsey, b. Sept. 29, 1804.

About 1780, a Stephen Robinson and wife Content came
here from Berwick and settled in Windham, Me. Being Quak-
,ers, the Friends' church record furnished what is known regard-
ing the children, six in number:

Patience, b. Berwick, June 25, 1778.

Stephen, b. Berwick, June 16, 1781.

Timothy, b. Berwick, Aug. 30, 1784.

John, b. Berwick, March 22, 1787.

Miriam, b. Berwick, Sept. 24, 1794.

Lydia, b. Berwick, June 3, 1794.

JOHN ROBINSON OF MAINE 87

On the same record is the family of John (styled "John the
tanner") and wife Tabitha, who came from Dover, X. H., settled
at Windham, four children:

Timothy, b. Dover, April 17, 1767.

Mary, b. Falmouth, Nov. 26, 1768.

Nathan, b. Falmouth, Aug. 15, 1771.

Reuben, b. Falmouth, Aug. 30, 1774.

Note that each have a son Timothy. It is remarked that the
Robinsons have a preference for the name of John, and it seems
manifest in nearly every family who came this way. Many of
them, too, were mariners. Among the number was Capt. John
Robinson, b. Bristol, R. I., July 7, 1758, mar. Mary Packard, b.
Bridgewater, Mass., May 3, 1761, and came to Portland for a
permanent home. At the present writing the exact date of this
event is not known, nor the place of birth of all the children.
There were eleven.:

1. Azel, b. May 30, 1781.

2. John (Capt.), b. Jan. i, 1783, d. Sept. 15, 1859, Portland;
mar. Jan. 28, 1808, Portland, to Mary Titcomb, b. 1788, Portland;
Mary Titcomb d. June 18, 1869, Portland; had eight children.
A great-grandson is Thomas A. Robinson, collector of taxes.
Norwich, Conn.

3. Daniel, b. Aug. 29, 1784, d. March 17, 1854. Portland;
mar. Oct. 19. 1808, Portland, Isabella Jordan of Portland, b.
1785; five children.

4. Martin, b. July 22, 1786. d. Aug. 22 1804.

5. Mary, b. April 3, 1788, d. Feb. 13, 1873.

6. Zebiah, b. May 23, 1790, d. May 19, 1885.

7. Sally, b. March 9, 1792, d. Aug. 17, 1849.

8. Abiel, b. Nov. 29, 1794, d. May 29, 1875.

9. Nahum, b. Feb. 6, 1796, d. September, 1819.

10. Abigail, b. July 20, 1798. d. June i, 1876.

11. Martha, b. Dec. 19, 180T, d. March 13. 1876; mar. March
20. 1823, Enoch Tobey of Portland, b. July 17, 1779.

Nineteen years before, Maine was separated from Massa-
chusetts (1801) the Commonwealth passed a resolve to apportion
to all who honorably served in the Revolutionary War 200
acres of land, or an equivalent of twenty dollars. Many Maine
soldiers did not avail themselves of the offer, and fifteen years
after the separation the Maine Legislature passed a resolve that

88 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

all who had not benefited by the Act of the Commonwealth
should receive 200 acres of. land, either in No. 2 Indian Purchase,
Penobscot County, or Letter D, in the Second Range of town-
ships, Washington County.

In February, 1836, and March, 1838, further resolves be-
came acts, to benefit the officers, soldiers or their widows and
800 made application for land. Many could not prove a three
years' service as required, and to meet these deserving cases an
additional resolve was passed March, 1836, whereby they were
to receive fifty dollars. Three hundred applied. The names of
the Robinsons found in this application are:

John, enlisted Scarboro, d. Limington, Feb. 14, 1826; widow,
Deborah, Limington.

John, enlisted Watertown, Mass., d. Sebago, Feb. 20, 1827;
widow, Phebe, Sebago.

Samuel, late of Portland, enlisted Cape Elizabeth, d. sea,
Aug. 21, 1806; widow, Betsey, Portland.

William, enlisted York, d. in service 1782; widow, Sarah,
York.

Jeremiah, private Adam's 33d Regt., placed on roll Dec, i,
1818, d. November, 1825.

Andrew, enlisted Cushing. Applied for pension Aug. 8,
1832, being seventy-three years of age. Served nine months as
private under Capt. Benj. Plummer. Wife Mehitable received
pension after his death.

John, enlisted Cape Elizabeth, was sergeant in Capt. Sam'l
Dunn's company. Col. Phinney's regiment. From the preceding
genealogical notes, it can readily be seen that there were several
John Robinsons on the cape, of suitable age to serve, at that time.
He may have been a son of John of Gloucester. Among the
long list of pensioners found on the books of the firm of Brad-
for & Harmon, claim agents, but one Robinson appears, viz.
Samuel, before mentioned.

The field for investigation is a large one in regard to the
Robinsons in Maine. The work has but just begun — to clear
away and make ready for the laborer. What little has been
accomplished may in the future aid our historian, and if many
lie in unnumbered graves, unnoted on history's page, it is a sat-
isfaction to know that a few have been found by laborious
endeavor, to grace the volume of the Robinson family.

ABRAHAM ROBINSON

HIS dp:scent and his descendants

BY

Will A. Robinson

Of Gloucester, Mass.

S will be seen from the title, the purpose of this
paper is twofold: to show the probability of the
descent of Abraham Robinson from the Rev. John
Robinson, and to cite a few of the many families
that are unquestionably his descendants.

Our first proposition will undoubtedly call
forth criticism at the very outset : for we know full
well the study which has been devoted to the sub-
ject by those of our number, who, void of all
prejudice, have given to us, in their most excellent papers before
this association, all the facts they have been able to obtain
in relation to Rev. John Robinson's family. But has not the
information furnished been negative rather than positive? Has
it not dealt more with what has not been proven by history, than
with what is traditional, and possible of verification ? Believing
this to be true, we enter upon our task.

Tradition has it that, after the death of Rev. John Robinson,
his widow with two sons, Abraham and Isaac, came to America.

The Ley den records of the year 1622 give the family of Rev.
John Robinson as follows:

Wife: Bridgett, or Brigetta White. Children: John, born
1606; Bridget, born 1608: Isaac, born 1610; Mercy, born 1612;
Favor, born 1614; Jacob, born 1621, Feb. 17.

From this record, it will be seen that the sons were given
Bible names: John, Isaac and Jacob. The first daughter was
named Bridget, for the mother, and John was probably named
for the father. The suggestiveness of this naming must be ap-
parent, so that the query naturally arises, if an Isaac and a Jacob,
why not an Abraham preceding these? If there are any cases

90 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

in the record of the genealogy of the Robinson family where the
son Isaac was not preceded by Abraham, they are the exceptions
and not the rule. I have yet to find the first exception. The
fact also that the name Jacob is not so frequently used, lends
strength to our supposition that, where Isaac was followed by
Jacob, he was without doubt preceded by an Abraham, in token
of patriarchal succession. But if this be true, where can we
place him, the Leyden records being silent in the matter?

According to the record, John was born in 1606, or when
his father was thirty-one years old. Now, an older son may have
preceded John named Abraham, or a second son may have been
born, to whom was given this name. In the Leyden records we
have only the year of birth given, not the month and day; thus
John may have been born in the first part of 1606 and Bridget in
the last part of 1608, or nearly three years apart, which would
allow the birth of a second son between.

It is quite possible that there was an older son named Abra-
ham, who may have been absent from home when the census
was taken in Leyden in 1622; for the Leyden record is a census
record, and not a record made at birth. It would not be strange,
therefore, if omissions occurred, or if children were not enume-
rated in the census on account of absence from home.

With this possible, or, as we believe, probable fact estab-
lished, that Rev. John Robinson had a son Abraham, have we
any proof that he or other members of the family came to Massa-
chusetts ?

Mr. Charles E. Robinson, in his excellent paper read before
this association in 1900, makes the following statement:

"Isaac Robinson, at the age of twenty-one, came over from
England in the ship 'Lyon' in 1631 for Massachusetts. He was
the son of the Rev. John Robinson of Leyden, and the ancestor
of all the Robinsons in America, who are descendants of the
Rev. John, as there is no evidence that his widow and other chil-
dren ever came over to this country, as has been claimed by
several writers."

A paper by Rev. William A. Robinson, D.D., read at the
same gathering, contains the following:

"Of the six children of John Robinson, two sons, John and
Isaac, are known to have come to Plymouth, Mass., in 1630."

Further, some of the encyclopaedias state that one son,

ABRAHAM ROBINSON 91

others, that two sons of the Rev. John Robinson came to Amer-
ica. Sometimes the names of the sons are mentioned, sometimes
they are omitted. Mrs. Webber, referred to below, states that
the name of the son of John Robinson, who settled in Agassquam,
and who was father of the Abraham Robinson whom we call 2nd.
is not known.

In the disagreement of such trustworthy authorities, what
are we to believe ?

The son Isaac can easily be traced in America, but of a son
John we find no mention. We do know, however, that at this
time an Abraham Robinson settled in Gloucester. In the ab-
sence of absolute proof to the contrary, therefore, are we not
permitted to believe that the Abraham, who settled in Gloucester
at this time, may have been the son of the Rev. John, especially
as tradition favors this conjecture ?

The following are statements made by descendants of Abra-
ham Robinson regarding their descent from the Rev. John
Robinson:

Mrs. Mary C. Sever, now living in Cimbridge, Mass., July,
1904. has furnished me with a copy of a paper written by Rebecca
Webber, wife of Samuel Webber, former president of Harvard
College from 1806 to 1810. It is entitled, "Descendants of Rev.
John Robinson." "By one of their number."

I will read the following extract:

"When the 'Pilgrim Fathers' of Xevv England left Holland
to seek an asylum in America, where they might enjoy liberty of
conscience, they left behind them their v^enerable pastor, the Rev.
John Robinson, who promised to join them next year, but was
prevented by death from fulfilling his promise."

"About two years after the landing of the Pilgrims they were
followed by Mr. Robinson's widow and two sons. These con-
tinued in the colony at Plymouth till the year 1626. Early in
the spring of that year one of the sons, with several other per-
sons, left Plymouth to explore the bay in order to find a suitable
place for a fishing station. They landed at Agassquam, since
called Cape Ann, where, finding a commodious harbor aiul plenty
of building material, they concluded to set up a fishing stage
there, make preparations for removing their faiuilies from the

92 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

other side of the bay, and establish a permanent settlement at
that place."

"Very soon after they settled there with their families, Mr. Rob-
inson had a son born ivhoni he called Abraham. He had four other
sons, Zebulon, Samuel, Johnathan and Stephen, and one or more
daughters. Abraham married young and had twelve children;
three sons, John, Stephen and Andrew, and nine daughters, two
of whom died young; the other seven were married and left fami-
lies — Elwell, Davis, Butman, Williams, Soames. Mr. Abraham
Robinson lived to the age of 102 years, much beloved and re-
spected by his friends and acquaintances for his piety and strict
integrity."

"It was engraved on his tombstone that he was the first child
born of English parents on that side of the bay."

The following is an extract from an obituary published in
Gloucester, Mass., at the death of Mrs. Susan Robinson Stevens:

"Mrs. Susan Stevens was born in this city (over the Cut) and
is the only survivor of the seven children of Jonathan Robinson,
who married Anna Batting Jan. 16, 1756, and died Jan. 30, 1821.
She is therefore a lineal descendant of our early settler Abraham
Robinson, through the line of his son Abraham, the first child
born to English parents on this side of the bay, who is said to
have reached the extraordinary age of 102 and is unqtiestionably
descended from Rev. John, the minister of the Pilgrims at Leyden."

Abigail Robinson, widow of Ezekiel Robinson, descendant
of Abraham, went from Gloucester, Mass., to Gardner, Me., to
live with her son Ezekiel. She died Nov. 20, 1820, aged 80.
Ezekiel had a brother Daniel, born in 1776, who lived to the age
of 90. The Rev. T. B. Robinson, nephew of Daniel, said regard-
ing his uncle, that "his life was devoted to study and extensive
reading, and that he felt sure of his descent from the Pilgrims.''

Polly Riggs of Rockport, Mass., died July 13, 1865, at the
age of 95 years and 6 months. She was in the line of Stephen
Robinson, seventh child of Abraham 2nd. She claimed, with a
good deal of emphasis, to Mr. Babson, Gloucester's historian, in
1 861, at the age of 90 years, that she -iVas a descendant of Rev.
John Robinson.

Mr. Benjamin Robinson, now living in Gloucester, another

ABRAHAM ROBINSON 93

descendant of Stephen Robinson, says that it has been the com-
mon beHef of his ancestors that they zvere descended from the Rev.
John Robinson.

Further, this is the common beHef and declaration of all
branches of the Abraham Robinson family.

Now it would seem that such traditions and authorities ought
not entirely to be ignored. /\ccordingly, we, the descendants of
the first Abraham Robinson, cling tenaciously to the belief that
we are connected with the Rev. John Robinson, and shall con-
tinue our research until every vestige of cioubt is removed, or the
contrary established without cjuestion.

We now turn to the descendants of Abraham Rol)inson. It
would be impossible, on account of numbers, to mention many
of these, but it is our purpose to cite a few of the families that aic
unquestionably descended from him.

According to the Gloucester records, Abraham Robinson
settled in Annisquam (Gloucester) in 1631. His wife was Mary,
who outlived him many years. He died Feb. 23, 1645, leaving
a son Abraham. Mrs. Webber says 'n her paper, previously
quoted, that he also left three other sons, but the Gloucester
records are silent on this point. From a deposition found on
record in Salem, Mass., Abraham 2nd declares, Feb. 25, 1721,
that he is yy years of age. This places his birth in 1644, one
year prior to his father's death.

Abraham 2nd married Mary Harrandaine, by whom he had
twelve children. Omitting month and day they were born:
Mary, 1669; Sarah, 1671 ; Elizabeth, 1673; Abigail, 1675; Abra-
ham. 1677; Andrew, 1679; Stephen, 1681; Ann, 1684; Dorcas,
1686; Deborah, 1688; Hannah, 1691 ; Jane, 1693.

There has been no record found of his death, but it is a com-
mon saying that he lived to the age of 102 years. The latest
deed recorded bearing the names of Abraham and of his wife
Mary, is dated Jan. 20, 1721. His wife, whom he is supposed to
have outlived at least twenty years, died Sept. 28, 1725. The
latest date which I have been able to find in connection with
Abraham 2nd is Feb. 23, 1727, when he made a conveyance of
property to Benj. Lane. He was at this time 83 years of age.

Mary, widow of Abraham, married William Brown ; and out-
living him, married Henry Walker. I make mention of this fact,
for, at his death, which occurred Aug. 20. 1693. he left a will.

94 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

which is an interesting document, as it clearly establishes rela-
tionships which otherwise might be doubtful. The original of
this will, on file in Salem, Mass., is well preserved, the ink being
as bright as when it was first written. The inventory of the will
is as follows:

Buildings, orchard and tillage land £ 120

Sixty acres Marsh 300

One hundred and fifty acres of Pasture more or less. . 300

Wearing apparel, beds & Bedding, books 24.10

Old chests, chains and wooden ware, 2 guns and

sword, Pot & Kettle and other iron ware 4.10

Iron tackling for husbandry 3

English Corn 6

Indian Corn 12

80 Sheep 38

Horse, bridle & saddles 5

3 Oxen 16

10 cows 38

3 steers 13

2 steers 8

Bull 3.10

3 young cattle 6

4 calves 2.10

swine 15

Hay and a tow-comb 7

Total £922.10

In this will, Henry Walker gives to his granddaughter
Sarah, 20 pounds when she shall become eighteen years of age;
"unto Andrew Robinson that now liveth with me 20 pounds,
when he shall attain the age of twenty years; and unto all the rest
of my son Abraham Robinson's children, two pounds ten shil-
lings a piece to be paid when they become of age." This will
was written Aug. 29, 1693. The "Sarah," "Andrew" and "the
rest of my son Abraham's children" must have been his step-
grandchildren and the children of Abraham 2nd.

Time will permit of only a brief reference to the twelve chil-
dren of Abraham 2nd.

Mary, first child of Abraham 2nd, married John Elwell.

Sarah, second child of Abraham 2nd, married John Butman,

I

ABRAHAM ROBINSON 95

who was lost at sea, October, 1715. They had six children:
Jeremiah, born June 30, 1690; Mary, born 1697; Hannah, born
1700; John, born 1703; John, born 1708, and Samuel, born 171 1.

Jeremiah married Jan. 6. 1713, Abagail Stevens. From this
tmion was born a son, Jeremiah.

Mary married John Babson 171 5. He died 1720, and his
widow Mary (Butman) Babson married a second husband, Jabez
Marchant. They had a son, Daniel, born Nov. 18, 1721, who
married Hannah Woodbury 1744; they had a son, William, born
Feb. 17, 1754, who married Hannah Wheeler. They had a son,
Epes, born in 1780, who married, 1803, Sally Rowe Thomas.
They had a daughter Mary Ann Marchant, who married Hugh
Parkhurst. They had a daughter, now living, who married
Fletcher Wonson. Epes Marchant had also a son George, who
had a son George, Jr.; and George, Jr., had a son, the Hon.
George E. Marchant. ex-Mayor of Gloucester, Mass. The last
two are now living.

The descendants of Sarah Robinson are more numerous in
Gloucester than those of any other child of Abraham 2nd. They
include the Wonsons, the Marchants, the Burnhams, several
Smith families, other than those hereafter mentioned as de-
scended through Abraham 3d, the Parkhursts, the Shutes and
many other leading families of Gloucester.

Elizabeth, third child of Abraham 2nd, married Timothy
Somes, Jr., December, 1695. From this marriage are descended
members of the Somes, the Mansfield and the Low families of
Gloucester.

Abigail, foitrfh child of Abraham 2nd, married Joseph York,
Jan. 10, 1700. They had six children: Abigail, born 1701 ; Ruth,
born 1703; May, born 1705; Sarah, born 1707; Joseph, born
171 1 ; Richard, born 1713.

Abraham 3d, Hftli child of Abraham 2n(l. married Sarah
York, Feb. 10, 1703. They had a son Andrew Jr. (more properly
second), who married Martha Gardner Jan. t, 1736. They had
Jonathan, born April 21, 1742, who married Anna P)atting. July
10, 1765. From this union are descended the family of the late
H. R. Stevens of Boston, Mass.; the families of the late Daniel
Smith, William T. Smith and Samuel E. Smith, with their later
descendants, the Smiths, the Rusts, the Days, and the McLarrens
of Gloucester, Mass.; the family of the late William Hayden,

96 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

located at Alton, 111., at Springfield, 111., and at Buffalo, N. Y.;
and the family of the late John Robins.^n, who lived to the age
of 86 years, two sons of whom, the Hon. David I. Robinson, ex-
Mayor of Gloucester, and William L. Robinson, are now living,
and one daughter, Mary E.

Besides Andrew, who was the fifth child, Abraham 3d had
seven other children: Abraham 4th, Jane, Samuel, Sarah, Mary,
John and Jonathan.

From Abraham 4th, through his grandson Ezekiel, are de-
scended many of the Robinsons of Maine, among whom were
several ministers, the author of the "Maine Farmer's Almanac,"
and many other persons of note.

From Samuel are descended the Riggs family of Gloucester.

From the last Jonathan are descended the Bray, the Roberts,
the Rust and the Parsons families of West Gloucester, a suburb
of Gloucester, Mass.

Andrew, sixth child of Abraham 2nd, became a man of con-
siderable note. He is the one styled in all the records as Capt.
Andrew Robinson. He married Rebecca Ingersoll, and their
descendants are quite numerous; Rebecca Smith, who married
Samuel Webber, former president of Harvard College, already
quoted as the author of a paper claiming descent from Rev. John
Robinson, comes from this line, as does also the late James Free-
man Dana, professor in Dartmouth College. Descendants of
Andrew are found also in the State of Maine.

Capt. Andrew Robinson built and first gave the name
"Schooner" to one of Gloucester's fishing craft. The following
poem by an unknown author best describes this event, and nlso
welds another link in the chain of circumstantial evidence of suc-
cession from Rev. John Robinson.

"LAUNCH OF THE FIRST SCHOONER"
"by common tater "

Andrew Robinson builder true,

In the quaint old days of yore,

Laid many a keel that swept the sea.

From Cape Ann to Bay Chaleur ;

All day the tireless builder wrought;

Rib and plank and spar and mast,

All were placed 'neath the master's eye;
"Work well done is sure to last,"

Quoth Andrew Robinson.

ABRAHAM ROBINSON 97

Andrew Robinson laid a keel ;

Soon arose a different craft

From those Cape Ann had sent to sea,

And the village people laughed.
"She '11 slide off like an egg-shell n fill

As quick," growled old Ezra Lane ;
"She '11 go off like a duck, you'll find,

And ride the stormiest main,"

Quoth Andrew Robinson.

The day of the launch brought crowds galore,

To see that curious sail,
"Neither ship, brig nor shallop she,

Robinson's folly — sure to fail."

The builder smiled; 'mid sturdy blows

The new craft glided to the sea,
"Look hozo she scoons!" cried Goody Day;
"Then a 'schooner' let her be,"

Quoth Andrew Robinson.

While Cape Ann "schooners" ride the sea.
Little is known of the brave
Builder of by-gone days, and few
Could even point out his grave.
Yet the better for us, perchance.
If, from out the misty past,
We take his motto to our hearts : —
"Work well done is sure to last,"
Quoth Andrew Robinson.

Mayhaps the Leyden pastor taught
His children that legend old ;
Mayhaps 'twas passed from sire to son
And by humble firesides told.
On Fancy's wall the picture stands :
The builder by the schooner's mast;
O'er ringing cheers we seem to hear: —
"Work well done is sure to last,"
Quoth Andrew Robinson.

Andrew Robinson had eleven children; one boy, Andrew,
and ten girls. His descendants are numerous.

Stephen, src'ciifh child of Abraham 2nd, married Sarah
Smith, and as second wife, Elizabeth Ingersoll. From the first
union are descended the families of Benjamin Robinson. Mrs.
Emma Saunders, the late Betsev Ann Reed and the late Marv C.

98 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Fait of Gloucester; also the family of Polly Riggs of Rockport.
previously referred to.

Ann, eighth child of Abraham 2nd, married Samuel Davis.
They had nine children: Lydia, born 1705; Samuel, born 1707;
May, born 1709; Isaac, born 171 1; Hannah, born 1713; Samuel,
born 1715 ; James, born 1717 ; Joseph, born 1722 ; Ann, born 1724.

Dorcas, nintJi child of Abraham 2nd, married Jonathan
Stanwood.

Deborah, tenth child of Abraham 2nd, married John Stan-
wood; from these two unions are descended the Stanwoods of
Gloucester.

Hannah, eleventh child of Abraham 2nd, died unmarried at
the age of twenty-six.

Jane, tzvelffh child of Abraham 2nd, married John Williams,
April 4, 1720. They had seven children: Jchn, born 1721 ; Evan,
born 1722; May, born 1724, died 1727; John, born 1726; Mny,
born 1728; Abraham, born 1733; Elizabeth, born 1735.

The brevity of this paper has prevented the naming of but
a few families who are descended from Abraham Robinson, who
settled in Gloucester in 163 1. At least one thousand of the
population of Gloucester, Mass., are descended from this early
settler.

It has not been our endeavor in tliis paper to prove that
Abraham Robinson was the son of the Rev. John Robinson; nor
again to give a complete list of the descendants of Abraham Rob-
inson. The first task, with our present information, is impos-
sible of performance; the second, though not impossible, would
require more investigation and research than the author of this,
paper can devote to the subject. Our only purpose has been to
emphasize the possibility of a connection between Abraham and
the Rev. John, and to trace his immediate descendants in such a
way that our paper may be of service to those descendants of
Abraham who may desire to trace their descent. Our belief that
we are descended from the Rev. John Robinson is based on
'traditional authority, and on the fact thit trustworthy writers on
the subject disagree. Our genealogical information has been
gathered, during the past twenty years, from many reliable
sources, but principally from the records of the city of Gloucester,
and from wills and deeds recorded in Salem, Mass.

JOHN ROBINSON

OF EXETER, AND SOME OF HIS DESCENDANTS

BY

Mrs. Harriet H. Robinson,

Of Maiden, Mass.

" And these were they who gave us birth.

The Pilgrims of the sunset wave.
Who won for us this virgin earth,

And freedom with the soil they gave.

" The pastor slumbers by the Rhine,
In alien earth the exiles lie.
Their nameless graves our holiest shrine,
His words our noblest battle-cry ! "

O. W. Holmes,
" Robinson of Leyden."

I.

F history may be called "tradition verified," surely
it may be claimed that genealogy also finds its
origin in family tradition, which, to a certain
extent, can be found to rest upon well-remembered
facts and family records.

It is at least thirty-five years since I began to
collect the material found in this paper; and now,
since the "Robinsons and their Kin Folk" have
begun to gather themselves together, I feel it to
be a duty that I owe to them, to give the facts I have accumu-
lated concerning one branch of their family line. I do this the
more willingly because I believe in "keeping the traditions of the
elders," and also in verifying them so far as possible.

In entering upon my husband's l)ranch of the family —
(William S. Robinson, whose pen-name was "Warrington") — it
will be necessary to give some details of the source of much of
my information, and to state that it is to his mother, Martha

loo THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Cogswell Robinson, that I am indebted for remembering what
had been handed down to her as to the facts relating to the Rob-
inson family, to which, by descent, she also belonged. I am
also indebted to her for the preservation of family documents,
indentures, deeds, and other relics, now in my possession, and
which came to her as the widow of the last surviving son of his
branch. The indentures are those of Cain, 1754; Jeremiah, Jr.,
1758, and Bradbury Robinson, 1767 — all "cordwainers."

Mr. Robinson's mother was a member of our household in
the last years of her life, and was fond of relating family history,
and I may as well say here that it was through her often repeated
stories "by word o' mouth," and afterwards recorded, that I was
enabled after she died (Nov. 24, 1856) to complete her ancestry
in the Cogswell line, through all its ramifications, from the first
American ancestors, John Cogswell and Thomas Emerson of
Ipswich, Mass., down to her own time; and also that of the
Robinson line, from Dr. Jeremiah, son of John" Robinson of
Exeter, her husband's own grandfather, who died March i, 1801,
aged eighty-one years*. Mother Robinson was born March 12,
1783, so that it was not so far back but that she could remember
the important points in her family history, as they were told to
her. Right here, I will take occasion to acknowledge my in-
debtedness to my own mother, Harriet Browne Hansonf, and
her oldest sister, both of whom lived to a great age,, for the in-
formation which led me to look into the history of their family
of Browne, to trace it to the first American ancestor, Nicholas
Browne of Lynn and Reading, and to make the connection down
to my own time. Almost every statement made by my mother
and her sister I afterwards proved by town records and church
histories, and by wills and deeds at Cambridge, Mass. Even the
story they told that their grandfather, William Browne of Cam-
bridge, "once sold land on which some of the colleges at
Cambridge were built," — and which I thought at the time might
be a tradition not to be verified, I did verify later by the deed
which I found at the Cambridge Registry of Deeds, and which
showed that "William Browne of Cambridge, carpenter, sold to
Thomas Brattle, Esquire, of Boston, treasurer of the society
known as 'the President & Fellows of Harvard College in Cam-

I

*N. E. H. Gen. Register, Oct., 1885, July, 1890.
+ " Nicholas Browne, and some of his descendants

JOHN ROBINSON OF EXBTBR loi

bridge aforesaid,' a certain parcel of land containing 60 acres
of upland and swamp, &c." Dated Sept. 20, 1705. Thus much
concerning the value of family tradition and "old wives' tales."

And now to return, and (though I know that here I tread
on dangerous ground), relate Mother Robinson's story, just as
it was told to me, of the first Robinsons who came to America.
She said, in substance: "The Robinsons were of English blood,
and were descended from the Rev. John Robinson; there were
three brothers that came over and landed at Plymouth, one of
whom, at least, did not stay there long, but made his way to the
cape." "What cape?" I asked, thinking she must mean Cape
Cod. She answered: "No, the other cape," meaning Cape Ann,
I concluded, though perhaps she did not know it by that name.
Neither did she know the name of the Robinson who made his
way to Cape Ann, nor any other particulars, as she did of
her first Cogswell ancestor. She had told my husband this story
many times, and in talking the matter over with me he said:
"What a ///(/// is, is of much more importance than who his an-
cestors are." He never expressed any doubt, however, as to the
truth of his mother's story. Mother Robinson often showed me
the relics that had "come down in the Robinson family." Among
these relics, perhaps the most important clue is a Delft plate,
which had been handed down from father to son, and had come
to her at her husband's death. This she first showed to me be-
fore I was married, in 1848. Other relics are a large chest of
good old English oak; a well-worn oak pestle and mortar; a low-
boy; a stuffed arm-chair (Eunice Robinson, 1740); and a King
James Bible, always called "the Robinson Bible." This Bible
is a Dublin edition of 1714. On a fiy-leaf is written: "Emerson
Cogswell, his book, given to him by his mother, Eunice Robin-
son (Cogswell), to be given to his son Emerson Cogswell after
his decease. Concord, Dec. 1799." This son was Emerson
Cogswell the third, and last*.

Eunice Robinson outlived the two Emersons, her son and
grandson, and she gave the Bible to her granddaughter. Martha
Cogswell Robinson, who in 1855 gave it to her son. William"
Stevens Robinson. After his death, it passed into the possession

*The name of "Emerson' came into the family in 1700, with the son of William Cogswell ami
Martha Emerson, his wife. She was the daughter of Thomas Emerson, of Ipswich. Ralph Walcio
Emerson and William Stevens Robinson derived a common ancestry from John Cogswell, 1G35 ("of
Welch descent "—Mother Robinson) and Thomas Emerson, 1641, both of Ipswich.

I02 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

of his only son, Edward^ Warrington Robinson, and in 1893 it
went to Colorado in the old oak chest.

The lowboy is of solid mahogany and has been handed
down, from father to son, to each successive "Jeremiah" for his
name, since early in the seventeenth centurv.

The most important document is a letter written by Zabulon
Robinson* to his brother Jeremiah^ Robinson of Concord, Mass.
By this letter I was enabled to make the connection from Zabu-
lon back through his father Jeremiah'* to his grandfather John^,
his great-grandfather Jonathan", to his great-great-grandfather,
John^ of Exeter, whose will is dated July y, 1749. It also led me
to look in the right direction for the information which I obtained
from town histories, church records and the old Norfolk County
records at Salem, Mass., which had not then been published.

Let me now return to our Mother Robinson's story of the
first Robinsons of her family who came to this country.

First. "They were descendants of the Rev. John Robinson,
and were of English blood." The Rev. John Robinson and his
family zvere of English blood (North of England).

Second. "There were three brothers who came over and
landed at Plymouth; one of them did not stay there, but made
his way to the cape." Thus far our Mother Robinson's story.

Now let me refer to well-known facts and dates, according
to the best authority.

The Rev. John Robinson and his wife, Bridget White, were
the parents of three sons: John\ born 1606; Isaac, born 1610;
Jacob, born 1616. They landed in Plymouth 163 1.

The second son, Isaac, is accounted for. He stayed in
Plymouth, lived there and in Duxbury, Scituate and Barnstable,
where he is supposed to have diedf. But "nothing is known of
the other two brothers" after they left Plymouth and, with others,
went away to "Cape Ann, to find a better fishing station." All
these facts, now pretty well established, will serve to corroborate
our Mother Robinson's story.

Supposing the dates of the births of John and Jacob to be
correct, John's age would be about twenty-five in 1631, and
Jacob's about fifteen, so that the latter would be not much more~

* See page 113 for Zabulon 's letter. t See History of Scituate.

JOHN ROBINSON OF BXETBR 103

than a boy when the party started on their venture round the
unknown shores of Cape Ann, which was considered at that time
as almost boundless*.

We have good reason to think that John's^ first stopping
place was Gloucester, where he rested, and that there his fellow-
voyagers were left, as we find no record of any who went on with
him; also that he may have confided to their care his young
brother Jacob, who had left Plymouth with the party and, with
Jolin^, has never been accounted for. But there was an Abra-
ham Robinson who came to Gloucester about that time, who
always claimed to be the son of the Rev. John Robinson. May
we not suppose Abraham Robinson to be the lost Jacob? If not,
who else can he be ? I see no reason to doubt his story, as he
was certainly old enough to know and remember who his father
was. If his name had remained "Jacob" no one would doubt
his word. A very likely solution of this mystery may be found
in the supposition that when John^ was intending to leave
Gloucester, he (with an elder brother's care over Jacob), nnay
have thought it best to place him with some good friend, rather
than to have him undertake so hazardous a journey. And then,
too, Jacob may have inherited his father's ill-health, since he
died at twenty-nine years of age; and this was an added reason
why he should be left behind. The change of name from "Jacob"
to "Abraham" can be explained by the fact that that such changes
are often made when a child is adopted, or taken into a familyf.
Abraham Robinson is found living in Gloucester "as one of the
early settlers," and he died there February 22,, 1645. ^t twenty-
nine years of age. And since he was not John^ of Exeter (who
will be accounted for later), it is more than "probable" that he is
"Jacob," under his new name, "Abraham."

In his history of Gloucester, Mr. Babson says of this Abra-
ham Robinson: "a traditionary account of a respectable charac-
ter afBrms that this individual was a son of the Rev. John Robin-
son," and, in speaking of Dr. Samuel Webber's paper (written
by his mother and left in the possession of the N. E. H. S.), he

* In the charter of Jan. 1, 1623, to " Robert and Edward Winslow and their associates," it was
stated that " a certain tract of ground in New England * * * in a known place commonly called
Cape Anne, "they had free "liberty to fish, fowle, hawk, etc., in the lands thereabout, and in all
other places in New England."

t This is particularly true if the family had lost a little son of that name, and wished to perpetuate
the name, as the name "Abraham " was in fact perix-tuated even to the fourth successive generation.
See Brochure, No. 2, page 50.

I04 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

adds, with regard to Abraham Robinson: "the material part ot
this statement has always appeared to bear the impress of truth."
I saw this paper before it was published by Mr. Babson, and
was much impressed by it. For, while Mrs. Webber might have
made a few errors as to dates, she seems to have been substan-
tially correct with regard to the descendants of Abraham Rob-
inson, second.

Abraham Robinson, second, married Mary Harraden. Of
this marriage there were twelve children, the date of whose births
are all recorded*. He died about 1740, at a great age; she in
1725*. The numerous descendants of their children are to be
found among the best-known families in the country. They at
least are not "mythical," although their first ancestor, Abraham,
is sometimes called so.f

Two of the descendants of Abraham, second, married into
the Giddings family, and it is in their line that the name of
"Bridget" (no doubt in memory of Bridget White, the Rev. John
Robinson's wife) has been perpetuated, almost to my generation,
as was also the peculiar name of "Zabulon." Two items with
regard to Abraham Robinson, second, may be recorded. In
1708, he received a common right in the house his father built,
and in which he died February 23, 1645*.

N. B. — The latest mention of Abraham, second, is in March,
1730, when Deborah, widow of Joseph York, had "set ofif to her
one-third part of a house and land at Eastern Point, to be for
her use after the death of Abraham, senior." Abraham "senior"
was Abraham Robinson, second, as he had a son named Abra-
ham. May there not be a clue here for this line to follow?

And now we will follow the trail of that John^ Robinson,
who is known to have "left Plymouth after a little while," to fol-
low the shores of Cape Ann, and we will enter the domain of
authentic records, as found in the authorities that will be men-
tioned.

* History of Gloucester

flf Isaac Robinson, the second son of the Reverend John Robinson, had for some unexplained
reason changed his name, say to " Ephraim," there would have been the same doubt as to his identity
as there has been hitherto in the case of " Abraham." No matter what he himself might have asserted,
Isaac could never have proved his identy, nor his relationship to the Reverend John Robinson. He
said he was his son, and so did Abraham, and this ought to be as good evidence in the one case as in
the other. It is a curious historical fact, that a similar incident happened in Isaac's own family. He
and his second wife had a son named Israel, baptized October 6 1651 whose name was changed to
Isaac in 1668 when he was 17 years of age

JOHN ROBINSON OF BXBTBR 105

11.

The first trace of John^ Robinson, in authentic records, is
found in Newbury, in 1640, to which place he had, without doubt,
come in his "small vessel over a stormy sea, and with scant
knowledge of that day," from Gloucester round the shores of
Cape Ann. It is pleasant to think of him, this pioneer path-
finder, traveling in this simple way towards an unknown destina-
tion, stopping at places where earlier Pilgrims had landed,
Scituate, perhaps, where it is recorded that he came in 1640 with
Francis Crocker, "purchased land, but did not remove thither;"
Ipswich, then an outpost on the journey; passing by Boston
Harbor, its rugged and inhospitable entrance and its bare tri-
mountains, little foreseeing that it would sometime be crowned
with the gilded dome of the State House of all Massachusetts;
and so on along Cape Ann until he came to the "sandy mouth"
of the Merrimack River, where he found a landing for his good
craft at "Ould Newbury" (first settlement 1635). Here we find
him recorded in 1640*, where his name appears among the twelve
Newbury men who settled Haverhill (Pentucket). John^ Rob-
inson's name is on the town books of Haverhill, 1640, and in 1645
he was one of "thirty-two landholders." In 1650, forty-three
freemen in the town subscribed themselves as "in favor of the
project of laying out the bounds of the plantation," and in 165 1
twelve men were chosen, and the name of our pioneer pathfinder.
John^ Robinson, heads the list, and the way was laid out by them
from "Haverhill to Excetter."t

There is no record of John's^ marriage, but the name of
"Elizabeth his wife" appears signed to a deed of February 9,
1 66 1, and also June 24, 1667; and in 1676, as co-administrator to
his will with his youngest son, David. John^ died Septem-
ber 10, 1675. Their children, recorded in Haverhill, aref :
I. John, born 1641, lived three weeks. 2. John, born 1642, died
young. 3. Jonathan-, born May 16, 1645J. 4- Sarah, born Jan.
8, 1647. died May 15, 1648. 5. David, born March 6. 1649. 6.
Elizabeth, born March 7, 1651.

*" Newbury charted in 1627. Charter granted to Sir Henry Rowell, John Endicot and others, and
■extending from a hne three miles north of the Merrimack River to over three miles south of the Charles
River, and from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean."

t History of Haverhill.

t Jonathan is called in this I'st the son of " gon," but it must be " John," as there arc no other
Robinson births recorded until after 1664. This may be an early instance of " fonetic " siJcUing

io6 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

John^ Robinson's name appears on the town books of Exeter
as one of the first settlers, between 1640 and 1680*, and on Octo-
ber 2^, 1652, he was chosen "as one of the overseers of work on
the meeting-house"; October 16, 1664, he was on a committee
"to lay out highways where they should judge convenient."

Extracts from deeds from 1649 to 1674 will show the where-
abouts of John^ Robinson of Exeter during that timef. In 1649,
John'^ Robinson — "it was acknowledged by him that Daniel Lad
had bought 6 acres of accommodation of him which the town
(Haverhill) had granted him." In 165 1, "John^ Robinson of
Haverhill, bought a dwelling house and land in Exeter. August
5, 165 1, John^ Robinson (also spelled Robison) of Haverhill,,
conveys to Thomas Lilfurth of Haverhill 'my accommodation
in Haverhill,' viz.: 10 acres to my houselot, 6 acres of which were
given to me by the town . . . also my house, etc." Ac-
knowledged in court at Salisbury, February 9, 1661. Signed:
John^ Robinson ("Robison.") Elizabeth Robison. (mark). In
1654, he held some property "including land granted me by Exe-
ter," of James Wall of Hampden, and sold the same to Henry
Robie. In 1654, "John^ Robinson of Haverhill bought a dwell-
ing house and land in Exeter, of Edward Gyllman, — 'Mr. Per-
mit's house.' " March 4, 1655, John^ Robinson bought of Joseph
Merrie of Hampton, in New England, a "dwelling house with 25,
acres of land lying unto ye fall's river, bounded by Mr. Stanian's
ground lying in Northward side, and Robert Tuck on the South-
ward side." In 1660, he owned "some land in Exeter, part of
which he sold to John Ffulsham." (Folsom?) In 1667, John^
Robinson of Exeter, in the county of Norfolk, planter, sold to.
Sam'l Leavitt a dwelling house and barn and 7 acres of land
in Exeter, "by the falls," Signed, John Robinson and Elizabeth
his wife (mark) and seal, June 24, 1667. Witness: Jonathan-
Robinson (his mark).

The inventory of his estate shows him to have been a planter,
or a farmer, as we should say.

His last recorded sale of property is in 1674, when "John^
Robinson sold to Moses Gillman of Exeter, the dwelling house I
bought of Edward Gylman which was sometime Mr. Permit'3

* Bell's History.

t O. N. C. Records, at Salem, Mass., a part of which have been published in the Essex Antiquarian
within a few years.

JOHN ROBINSON OF EXETER 107

with the hoiiselot, and other lands." February 24, 1674, entered
June 24, 1675* (a few months before his death).

The record of John'^ Robinson of Exeter as a pubhc man
may, so far as know'n, be summed up as follows: He "was one of
the grand jury held at Salisbury (the shire town) February 12,
1653; also "64, '68 and 74: was on the trial jury at Salisbury,
February 11, 1654, and 1667: "was chosen to end small causes,
1668; was allowed by the court to keep a ferry at Exeter, and to
have a penny for a passage." (No date.)

The following scant tribute to the character of John^ Robin-
son is found in Bell's "History of Exeter," as copied from the
bi-centennial address of the Hon. Jeremiah Smith: "Among the
persons who united their fortunes with ours during the first cen-
tury (1600), the men who bore the heat and burden of the day,
we find the names of Gilman, Robinson and many others."

No will can be found, but there is an "inventory of the
estate of a Jno.^ Robinson of Exeter, county of Norfolk, will
probated July 7. 1749," w^iich states that he "deceased this loth
day of ye 9th month, 1675." At the court held at Hampton
Fallsf in 1676, "Elizabeth Robinson and David were appointed
joint administrators of ye estate of Jno.^ Robinson, late of Exeter,
deceased." David is also spoken of as "joint administrator w^ith
his mother, the estate to remain in the hands of the administra-
tors during the life of the widow Robinson and then to be divided
amongst the children according to law." The last recorded sale
of his property is in December, 1678, when "David and Elizabeth
Robinson, administrators to the estate of Jno.^ Robinson of Exe-
ter, sold to John Sinkler of Exeter, 2 acres of upland in Exeter. '

With regard to his name as spelled (carelessly) in some in-
stances "Jno.," the best authority which I have consulted is of
the opinion that his name should mean John^ instead of Jona-
than-; and when the fact is considered that at the date of his
death, and earlier, there was no other John Robinson living in
Exeter, there is certainly nothing to conflict with this opinion!.

* O. N. C. R. t Unpublished O. N. C. R. at Salem. Copied by H. H. R.

t It is said that during the French and Indian war, " a John Robinson, a blacksmith, who had
removed from Haverhill to Exeter in 1657, was on his way to Hampton with his son, when some lurk-
ing Indians fired upon them and shot the elder Robinson dead. The son escajicd." There is also an
account preserved, that a Goodman Robinson of Exeter was killed in King Philip's war.

The French and Indian war began in IfiQO and ended seven years later. King Philip's w.-ir
began in 1675 and in 1676. " Barber's Mass. Historical Collection."

But neither of these can be our John Robinson, since they arc not accounted for either before or
after the dates mentioned. "Goodman ' was no doubt some old man, spoken of as " Goodm.an " after
the English and John Bunyan style, just as we would now say " grandpa " or " old man Robinson."

io8 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

We will now turn to Jonathan" Robinson, the son of John^
(jon), born May i6, 1645, who would be thirty years old at the
time of his father's death. Bell's history of Exeter gives the
name of Jonathan- Robinson as second on the town books of
Exeter, the first being that of John^ (his father), between the
years of 1640 and 1680. The date of John's^ name is April 20,
1652. The date of Jonathan's- is March 3, 1673. There are
several deeds to show that he lived in Exeter, both before and
after his father's death. June 24, 1667 (at twenty-two years of
age), he witnesses the Leavitt land sale, signed by "John^ and
Elizabeth Robinson, his wifef." In 1674 he buys land of Jona-
than Thwing. In 1672 he was chosen tithing man, among the
first elected in the town. In 1680 his name appears in the Mason
Land Suit, in 1698 as one of the reorganizers of the church and,
the same year, he was "one of the twenty-six subscribers to the
covenant and confession of faith." October 26-29, 1696, he fur-
nished the garrison (King William's war, 1690-1713), and in 1710
he was one of a scouting party in pursuit of Indians. And if he
died shortly after this time, as seems to appear in the deed, it
would make him about sixty-two or sixty-three years old at the
time of his death.

There is no further mention of this Jonathan- Robinson in
any authority which I have consulted, excepting in a record from
the ofifice of the Secretary of State of New Hampshire, where
was found the following deed, which, as my most reliable au-
thority informs me, "seems to take the place of a will$."

March 6, 1710-': i, Jonathan- Robinson of Exeter deeded
property to his wife, who is not named, and to his children
■Joseph^, John^, David^, James^, Jonathan^, Easter^ and Eliza-
beth^, also to Lidia, daughter of his son John. (N. H. Province
Deeds, Vol. 9, p. 65.)

John^ Robinson, the son of Jonathan-, was born in Exeter,
September 7, 1671. His father died in 1710-'! i. This would
make John^ about thirty-nine years of age when his father
died. John's^ last will is dated July 7, 1749. Thus he would
be, at the time of his death, about seventy-eight years old.

Certainly there is nothing in the foregoing dates to conflict
with the statement that John^ Robinson was the son of Jonathan-

t See page 106

X My most reliable authority is Miss Etha L. Sargent, clerk in the office of the Secretary of State
at Concord, N. H., who has furnished me with copies of deeds, wills, and other valuable documents.

JOHN ROBINSON OF EXETBR 109

of Exeter, and the grandson of that John\ who "flayed
the trail" from Newbury to Haverhill and from Haverhill to
Exeter*.

It may seem strange to the casual reader that no more ex-
tracts have been given, either from town or church records, and
that I have been unable to state where any of the above Robin-
sons and their families were buried. In Bell's history, however,
I found a solution of the mystery, the cause (I will not say the
reason) for this strange hiatus in the history of the family. He
says: The second oldest "place of burial in Exeter became dis-
used in 1696, when the new meeting house was erected."
"The yard surrounding the meeting house was then devoted,
after the English fashion, to burials. For a long period most
of the leading men . . . were interred there. ... It re-
mained in use for probably almost a hundred years, when early
in the present century (1800), on the sole authority of a few of
the leading men of the town, all the tombs and headstones were
removed from the yard, or leveled to the ground and covered
with earth . . . and all marks of the tenants beneath were
substantially obliterated. . . . On what ground this appar-
ent act of vandalism was justified, we cannot imagine." And„
the author continues, "the loss which it caused to the antiquary
and investigator of family history is well nigh irreparable."

I believe that a few of these graves were rescued, notably
that of a Thwing family, who erected a fence around their lot.
Let us hope that those "leading men of the town" who coun-
tenanced this act of vandalism, by which "the grassy barrows of
the sleeping dead" were thus leveled, were none of them descend-
ants of the early English Christians. These lost epitaphs on
"their nameless graves" might tell us so much of the clos-
ing history in the lives of many of the founders of New
England !

The history of Exeter, so valuable in other respects, has no
record of John'^ of Exeter, of Jonathan- his son, nor yet of John'',
son of Jonathan-, though certainly two of these, if not three, were
men of note, and there should be records to be fovmd, somewhere,
besides what I am able to give. They were all members of the

*In the "Appendix on the Robinson Family (N. E. H. G. Register, July, 1S90), I made the-
statement that it was Jonathan Robison of Exeter (instead of Jolin) who died Sept. 10, 1675. But
after years of research and upon reliable authority I am now well assured that the above statement irb
the text is correct. H. H. R.

no THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

New England Church, the church of the Puritans, at that time,
and yet it is said that those early church records are not "avail-
able." Were they also buried in that desecrated churchyard by
those "leading men," who thus forever obscured the record of
the lives of those who had preceded them* ?

Here let me say one word about the difficulties incurred in
finding the material for such a genealogy as this. When I first
read Zabulon's letter (which I shall come to presently). I thought
at once that "Pembroke" was in Massachusetts — being so near
Plymouth. But finding nothing there, I put a query in the Bos-
ton Transcript, asking about a town in Norfolk County, Massa-
chusetts, called "Exeterf." The answer came at once from sev-
eral sources (and here let me thank the writers), that Exeter was
in Norfolk County, New Hampshire. Also, not to enter into de-
tails, I learned, among other valuable facts, that, in 1680, the
original county of Norfolk ceased to exist, and that the old Nor-
folk County records were kept at Salem, Mass. These records
had not then been published, but I gave them a thorough search,
and in reading the story of this division of these "old Norfolk
County towns from Massachusetts," I am tempted to side with
those sturdy pioneers who were so reluctant to be severed from-
Massachusetts soil that they opposed the scheme, feeling, no
doubt, that to make the division would, in a sense, deprive
them of their birthright. And I would not wonder if our John^
Robinson were among these dissenters. But they were defeated
by the more astute politicians, and thus were prevented from
living and dying in the "commonwealth" to which they had chosen
to come, and to which they sfill held their allegiance. Ah! if the
Old Norfolk County had not been carried bodily into New
Hampshire, its records might have been preserved intact, in some
accessible locality, where searching for them would not be, as it
is to-day, the despair of genealogists! But more prosperous
times are coming for future researchers. Our sister State has
moved in the right direction. In 1905, its Legislature enacted a
law "to secure, for the purpose of safety, record and ready refer-

* I refrain from adding more, for I remember that in my own native city of Boston "The Old
Granary Burying Ground," where my grandfather, Seth Ingersoll Browne, who fought at Bunker
Hill, Hes buried, was long since encroached upon by Park Street Church and the Boston Athenaeum,
and that the "South Burying Ground," where my own father, William Hanson, was buried, is in part
obliterated by the St. James Hotel and the Boston Conservatory of Music. Is there any good
reason for such acts of vandalism ?

tSee letter, page US.

JOHN ROBINSON OF BXBTBR m

ence, every record, or part of record, or scrap of personal history
connected with the births, marriages and deaths that have taken
place in this State." Let us hope that, included in this admir-
able work, the "Old Norfolk County Records," now in Salem,
Mass., and mostly unpublished; the "New Hampshire Province
Deeds," and other scattered material now held by the Rocking-
ham County Probate Court and by the State of New Hampshire
itself, will be gathered together in some safe and substantial build-
ing. And if a custodian is wanted, no better one can be found,
to my liking, than my "reliable authority" and invaluable help
in this work, whom I have already mentioned.

The will of John"* Robinson, which now follows, will give the
assurance that here, at least, I stand on no debatable ground;
and in entering it, I feel somewhat as Farmer Thomas Dustin of
Haverhill must have felt when, in 1697, he placed seven of his
eight children behind him and so fought his way to safety. So
I, with the numerous descendants of John^ Robinson, even be-
yond the seventh generation to sustain me, can go on and bravely
face my critics — if I have any-^assured that here, at least, I tread
on no disputed ground.

HI.

There is no record to be found of the birth or death of John''
Robinson of Exeter, but his will shows the probable date of his
death ; and the reader will see that there is no discrepancy in
dates to warrant any doubt as to the statement that he was the
son of Jonathan- and the grandson of John\ To recapitulate:
John^ Robinson of Exeter, died September 10, 1675. Jonathan-
Robinson of Exeter, died, or signed "substitute for a will," March
6, 1710-'! I. John^ Robinson of Exeter last will is dated July 7,
1749, and is as follows:

THE WILL OF JOHN^ rqbINSON OF EXETER, JULY 7, 1749.

"In the Name of God Amen I John Robinson of Exeter in
the Province of Newhampshire in New England Gentlemen being
in health of body and of perfect mind and memory. Thanks be
given to God: But knowing it is appointed unto all men to die,
do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, That is
to say, Principally and First of all. I Give and Rcoommond my

112 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Soul into the hands of God who gave it; and my body I recom-
mend to the Earth to be buried at the discretion of my Executor
hereafter named: And as touching such worldly estate where-
with it has pleased God to bless me for this life. I Give Devise
and dispose of the Same in the following manner and form.
Imprs My Will is that my Just Debts and Funeral Charges shall
be paid and Discharged by my Executor hereafter named.

Item. I give to my Dearly beloved Wife Mehetable Robin-
son the Improvement of one halfe of My Dwelling House Barn
and Orchard, and of all my land lying in Exeter upon the North-
erly Side of the way going to Hampton Town, Known by the
Name of my home place by estimation Fifty acres, be it more or
less, as long as she Remains my Widow: I Likewise give her the
Improvement of all my Household Goods During her Natural
life, and what Remains of them at her Decease I Give to my two
Daughters Lidia Morison and Sarah Palmer. I Likewise Give
her all my Stock of Cattle horses sheep and swine to be at her
own Dispose — ^and the silver Tankard —

Item. I Give to my son John Robinson besides what I have
already given him Five shillings New Tenor —

Item. I Give to my son Jonathan Robinson besides what I
have already Given him Five shillings New Tenor —

Item. I Give to my son Jeremiah* Robinson besides what
I have already given him Five Shillings New Tenor —

Item. I Give and Devise to my son Daniel Robinson his
Heirs and assigns forever the one halfe of my Dwelling house
Barn and orchard and of all my land lying in Exeter upon the
Northerly side of the way going to Hampton Town Known by
the Name of my home place by estimation Fifty acres be it more
or less immediately after my Decease And the other halfe of my
Dwelling house Barn and orchard and the other halfe of my
Fifty acres of land before mentioned after his mother's Decease
or upon her marriage, n. b. — I likewise give him all my Unen-
sils for Husbandry and all my money, Bills Bonds and Book
Debts so far as shall be necessary to Defray my Just Debts
Funeral Charges and Legacies and what Remains after they are
Discharged, he Shall Return to his mother. I Likewise Give
him my great Coat and my Tools.

Item. I Give to my Daughter Lidia Morison Fifty pounds
in Bills of the old Tenor.

JOHN ROBINSON OF EXETER 113

Item. I Give to niy Daughter Sarah Pahner Fifty pounds in
Bills of the old Tenor.

Item. I Give to my Daughter Alary Follensbeys Children

Fifty pounds in Bills of the old Tenor to be equally

divided between them —

Item. I Give to my Grandson Jonathan Cauley one hundred
pounds in Bills of Credit of the old Tenor: And my Will is that
all my Legacies shall be paid within Twelve Months after my
Decease.

Item. I give to my Wife Mehetable Robinson all my estate
not mentioned and disposed of in my Will. ■

Finally. My Will is and I do hereby appoint my son Daniel
Robinson sole Executor to this my Last Will and Testament.
Hereby Revoking, Disanulling, and making void all former Wills
and Testaments l)y me heretofore made In Witness whereof I
have hereunto set my hand and seal this Seventh Day of July
Anno Domini One Thousand Seven Hundred and Forty Nine

Signed, Sealed & Declared by the Said John Robinson to
be his Last Will and Testament in Presence of us Woodbridge
Odlih, John Dean, Richard Smith Jur

John Robinson. [Seal]

The word of and the word Devise on the other side were
Interlined before Signing.

Province of Newhamp, August ye 22d 1755. Then the Will
Proved by John Dean and Richard Smith Jur according to
Common form before the Judge,

Copied from original will, Xo. 2145. Recorded, Probate
Records, Vol. 19, page 353.

The letter of Zabulon Robinson, which follows, is a good
object lesson to those who are interested in family history. It
has been invaluable to me, not only as an interpreter of his grand-
father's will, but also as a proof of the identity of his own family
and other information concerning several generations.

Extracts from the letter of Zabulon Robinson:

"To Mr Jeremy Robinson\ att Concord, Alassachusetts
State, Per favour of Dr xA.dams.

Dear Sir: it has been a Long Time Since I saw you. Many
a day and Date has Past. I hant seen your face since the year
1766, if I remember Right, a long time. Inrlced it seems to me

114 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

somewhat Unnatural. I received a Letter from you last Octo-
ber, Dated Septr 26. You wrote that you and family was well,
and Likewise the rest of our brethren & Sisters. I w^as Very
Glad to hear from you and your family with the rest of our
Kindred, for I seldom Ever Heard from any of you. Living at
some Distance from our main Post road. You Likewise Give
me Account in your Letter of the death of our sister Cogswell-^
her Dicing \^ery suddenly, Therefore i think such near & other
Daily Instances of mortality ought to mind us of our
change. . . .

"I think that our near Kindred on the father's side^ are most
all deceased, but two left, Uncle Jonathan* in the Town i live in
& uncle DanieF of Exeter. On the mother's side, but one alive
(his mother's name is unknown) Aunt Williams" of Hampton
falls. ...

"You hant mentioned anything Concerning our honored
mother-in-law''', what's become of her? I shud be very Glad to
hear from her and her welfare if alive. . . .

"Your sister^ has Had Seven Children, all alive, I suppose,
all at Home but one, furthermore ile thank you if you can send
me an account of my father's death. Day and date and Age. . . .

"times is Very poor in our Parts, business Exceeding dull.
Money very scarce. None for Tradesmen.

"Be kind enough to Give a Little Intelligence of Master Mc
Clearys Faimily'*? Z.\bulon Robixsox.

"Pembroke, February the 16 Day, 1787."

On the margin is written, in another hand, "Oct 19, 1771.
My father decest."

Notes of explanation to Zabulon's letter:

1. "Mr. Jeremy^ Robinson," brother of Zabulon, both sons
of the first wife of Dr. Jeremiah* Robinson.

2. "Our sister Cogswell" was Eunice Robinson Cogswell,
Jeremiah and Zabulon's half sister. She was the first wife of
Lieut. Emerson Cogswell.

3. Dr. Jeremiah* Robinson, father of "Jeremy" and Zabulon.

4. "Uncle Jonathan," son of John''.

5. "Uncle Daniel," son of John".

6. "Aunt Williams" is unknown.

7. "Our honored mother-in-law" was Eunice Amsden Rob-

JOHN ROBINSON OF EXBTBR 115

inson, second wife of Dr. Jeremiah^ Robinson and mother of
Eunice Robinson Cogswell, Zabulon's half sister.

8. "Your sister" — Zabulon's wife, name unknown; nor could
anything be found about the "seven children."

9. "Master McCleary" — unknown, unless he is the Samual
McCleary, Jr., who signs the indenture of Cain Robinson, 1770.
Susannah Cogswell, daughter of James Cogswell and niece of
Jeremiah^ Robinson, married a Mr. McCleary. She died in
Westboro in 1894, "at the advanced age of almost ninety-seven."
She was a well-known patriot during our Civil War, taught
school at the South, and was obliged to fly for safety in 186 1. and
spent her last dollar on the journey. Horace Maynard, Member
of Congress from Tennessee, is of her branch of the Robinson-
Cogswell family.

It will be easy to read between the lines of John's" will and
surmise that "Mehetabel" was not the mother of the older mem-
bers of the family, for the father "portioned them of¥''; but that
she was the mother of Daniel, who has the lion's share of the
inheritance. And besides, if Mehetabel had been the mother of
the older ones, the probability is that there would have been no
need for that antediluvian provision in the will, "as long as she
remains my widow."

The family name of John's" wife is unknown. The children
mentioned in the will are:

1. Lidia. m. Morison.

2. Sarah, m. Palmer.

3. Mary, m. Follensbey (children of)

4. Jonathan Cauley (grandson).

5. John.

Of the above heirs nothing is to be found in any record.

6. Jonathan, lived in Pembroke. N. H., Feb. 16. 1787.

7. Jeremiah* (see later.)

8. Daniel, sole executor of the will, lived in Exeter Oct. 19,
1767, when he bought of his brother, Jeremiah* Robinson of
Westford, Mass., physician, his right "into a certain pew in the
old meeting house at Exeter, which pew formerly belonged to
our honored father John'' Robinson, late of Exeter." Daniel*?
estate was settled about 1783, but there arc no records in Con-
cord, N. H., after the Province Period, March. 1771. Jeremiah*
There are manv deeds on record to show his idontitv. and the

ii6 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

different places in which he Hved from 1733 to 1771. The first
deed is from John^ Robinson of Exeter, June 12, 1748, about a
3-ear before his father died. This deed was to "Jeremiah* Robinson
of Marlboro," but was not recorded until July 17, 1762, and then
to "Jeremiah Robinson of Haverhill, Mass., physician." Other
deeds show that he lived in Littleton 1733, Marlboro 1747, Hav-
erhill 1762, Westford 1767. The last recorded deed is July 17,
1762, already mentioned, which reads:

"Jeremiah* Robinson of Westford, Mass Bay, physician,
for twenty shillings sold to Daniel Robinson of Exeter, yeoman,
his right into a certain pew in the old meeting house, which
formerly belonged to our honored father John^ Robinson of
Exeter." Province Deeds.

The name of Jeremiah's* first wife is unknown, except for
this item, found in the church records at Littleton: "Lidia, wife
of Dr. Robinson, admitted to full communion in the church at
Littleton before 1747." His record as a physician while in West-
ford is brief and touching. In 1767, the town voted "not to pay
Dr. Jeremiah* Robinson for doctoring the town poor." He died
there October 19, 1771.

The children of Jeremiah* and Lidia his wife were: i. John,
b. Dec. 26, 1733. 2. Mary, b. Nov. 13, 1735. 3. Olive, b. Sept.
10, 1737. 4. John, b. Nov. 11, 1739. 5. Jeremiah^, b. April 4,
1742. 6. Zabulon, b. Feb. 9, 1743 — all born in Littleton, Mass.

Of the first four children of Jeremiah* nothing is known.
For fifth, Jeremiah^, see later. Sixth. Zabulon: He was a sol-
dier in the Revolutionary War in Capt. McConnel's company of
Pembroke, Mass., May 4, 1777. He has no known descendants.

Jeremiah's* second wife was Eunice Amsden of Marlboro,
born July 27, 1720, married October 14, 1746, died in Concord.
Mass., 1801, aged eighty-one*. Their children were: 7. Thomas
Amsden, born in Littleton, May 23, 1747. 8. Thomas, born in
Littleton, Oct. 2y, 1748. 9. Eunice, born in Marlboro, Oct. 13.
1750; married Lieut. Emerson Cogswell, 1733, died in Concord.
Mass., Sept. 11, 1786. 10. Bradbury, born in Marlboro, Aug. 8.

1752, married Abigail : two daughters: indentured to John

Aish of Boston, Oct. 22, 1777; will dated Charleston. I799t-

* Concord Church Records.

+ April 23, 1775, depositions were taken by authority of the Provincial Crmgress of men who were
eye-witnesses of the Concord fight on the 19th of .April, 1775, and Bradbury Robinson and two others

JOHN ROBINSON OF EXETER 117

II. Cain, born Sept. 15, 1754, named for Robert Cain, a family
friend; indentured to Jeremiah'' Robinson, Jr., his half brother,
Sept. 13, 1770. He moved to New York State. 12. Lydia, born
Aug. 14, 1757, married twice; no issue. 13. Winthrop, born July
2T,, 1760; d. young. 14. Winthrop, born Aug. 12, 1763.

Jeremiah^, the fifth child of Dr. Jeremiah* and Lydia, his
first wife, was indentured to John Aish (signed by Robert Cain)
August 22, 1758, "a cordwainer."* He married Susannah Cogs-
well, sister of Lieut. Emerson Cogswell (who had married her
husband's sister), October 13, 1767. He died in Concord, Mass.,
July 16, 1815. She died in Marlboro, December t8, 1836. Their
children were:

1. Susannah, m. John Caldwell, April 8, 1783.

2. James, "killed at the horse-sheds" when "a boy."

3. Mary. m. Louis Richards, a refugee (with his mother)
from France, during the French Revolution. They were the
parents of nine children, and their oldest was named Bridget.
Louis Richards and his family moved to Maiden, Mass., in 1806.

4. Eunice Cogswell, born 1775, married Daniel Stevens, Jr.,
of Marlboro, July 20, 1797, died Feb. 20, 1844. They had eleven
children.

5. William^ "a hatter," born in Concord, Mass., April 21,
1776, in the house occupied by the poet W. E. Channing in 1854.
Married Martha Cogswell, daughter of Lieut. Emerson Cogs-
well, Xov. 4. 1804. He died in Concord, Dec. 12, 1837. She
died in Concord Nov. 24, 1856, and their gravestones are in
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. They were what is called "double
cousins. "t

6. John, born 1779, "drowned in the North River" July 20,

1795-

of Concord testified that they saw " near one hundred of regular troops, being in the town of Concord
at the north bridge in said town. * * * And they were taking up said bridge when about three
hundred of our militia were advancing toward said bridge * * * when, without saying anything
to us, they discharged a number of guns on us, which killed two men dead on the six)t, and wounded
several others, when we returned the fire on them, which killed two of them, and wounded several,
which was the beginning of hostilities in the town of Concord." Bradbury Robinson was sergeant of
a Concord company under Capt. Abishai Brown, April 20, 1775. " Shattuck's History of Concord,"
pages 349, 352.

* I have his awl, which, held in his good right h.and, had kept in comfort, if not in luxury, his
large family of ten. Surely in his case the " awl " was mightier than the " gun " that he used on the

19th of April, 1775.

t " The children of one or more brothers and sisters who marry sisters or brothers having three

quarters of the same blood, are double cousins to each other."— Shattuck Memorials. \. E. H. G. R.

ii8 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

y. James, born in Concord. Lived in Lynn; married and
had two children, one named Algernon Sidney.

8. Jeremiah, born in Concord, 1782, died Sept. 21, 1797.

9. Lydia, born in Concord, married Benjamin Burditt, July
2, 1805. One of their children, Benjamin Augustus, was the
founder and leader of the celebrated "Burditt's Boston Brass
Band." Has descendants.

10. A daughter, died young.

Jeremiah^ lived in Boston in 1770, moved to Concord, Mass.,
about i774-'5 and lived near the "Hill burying ground," in which
he is buried. He was a "minute-man" at the Concord fight x\pril
19, 1775. While "at the bridge," his wife, Susannah (Cogswell),
with her brick oven heated, was busy cooking food for the sol-
diers when they should return from the bridge, when, looking
out of her window, she saw' some of the British "regulars" com-
ing down over the "burying hill" tow'ards her house. The gun
was behind her door, as was usual in that troublous time, and
she made ready to defend herself. All they wanted, however,
was food, which she gave them through her window as they
w-aited outside, she meanwhile standing ready within to defend
herself in case they attacked her. Later, when she heard that
the "regulars" were coming, she went straight to the "meeting
house opposite her own house, took the communion plate,
brought it home and hid it in her soft-soap barrel, in the arch
under the great chimney, where it lay hid till the 'red coats' left
Concord."

The husband of Susannah Robinson's sister Eunice (Lieut.
Emerson Cogswell) may well be mentioned here, as the children
of both families intermarried, and were therefore "double cous-
ins" to each other.

Lieut. Emerson Cogswell was a direct descendant of John
Cogswell and Thomas Emerson of Ipswich, Mass. (1635). He
moved from Boston to Concord, Mass., about i77i-'3, and was
a Concord "niinute-man" and second lieutenant under Capt.
George Minot in 1776; and, in 1778, as lieutenant under Capt.
Francis Brown of Lexington, he served in the army in Ma'-sa-
chusetts and Rhode Island to the close of the Revolution. He
was a member of the " committee of public safety," one of the
founders of the "social circle," of Concord, Mass., in 1778, and
was one of the two last survivors of the original twelve mem-

JOHN ROBINSON OF EXETER iig

bers.* His final recorded appearance as a soldier is July 30, 1778,
when he was "drafted from Capt. Minot's company for six weeks'
service in Rhode Island under Brig.-Gen. Sullivan." He was
generous to a fault, and one of his last acts of misplaced friend-
ship was to become a bondsman for one Brown ("Old Joe
Brown": Mother Robinson), who ran away to Wellsburg, Va.,
leaving Mr. Cogswell to be responsible for his debts. To meet
this obligation, he sold what remained of his once large landed
property to "Captain" John SalTord of Hamilton, March 18, 1799,
and paid the debt (as his stepdaughter, who saw the transaction
remembered), "in buckets of specie." The money received for
this sale was $1,440.00. The deed was signed by "Emerson
Cogsw^ell and Elizabeth Cogswell." She was his third wife, and
was the widow Buttrick, nee Batemanf. Thus the last of his
property, both inherited and acquired, passed into alien hands.

Emerson Cogswell was a leading man in public affairs, and
many deeds at Cambridge, from i77i-'92, show that he held con-
siderable landed property. One of his best gifts to the town of
Concord w-as on January 28, 1795, where, in a deed of land he
had sold to John Brooks|, was this agreement : There shall be a
"passage-way of 14 feet between that land near the dwelling
house of Emerson Cogswell and said John Brooks ... so
that their servants and families may pass and repass freely." And
thus, for one hundred and eleven years (1795-1906) this has been
a favorite path to and from the old meeting house. For though
it was not the path to his meeting house, he wanted others, who
did not agree with him in religious belief, to find an easy passage-
way to the meeting house of their choice. This meeting house
(now Unitarian) was then Trinitarian, under "Parson Ripley."
Mr. Cogswell was what was called a "Restorationer," or "Univer-
salist." He owned and lived in the "old block" in Concord

* Emerson Cogswell died M;iy 13, 1S08; Jonathan Fay died Jan. 1, ISll. Sliattuck's History of
Concord.

tit is through the descendants ot his third wife that Emerson Cogswell is (at this date, 1906) the
most fully represented. Her three Cogswell daughters were: Eliza' Ann, ni. John Sweelser, one son
living; Mary^, m. first John Corey, second Stephen^ Pierce, eight children, one of whom, John, was in
the 6th Massachusetts Regiment in the Civil War; Eunice^, m. Richard Whitney of Winchcndon, Mass.,
ten children. Among them may be mentioned: Emerson, the eldest, a graduate of Vale, d. unmarried,
1851; Edwin, d. 1870, has i.ssue; Franklin Oscar, living in Boston 1906, unmarried; Richard Man-
ning, the youngest son, served in the Civil War, 21st Massachusetts Regiment, and died in Zan-
zibar, unmarried. Her two living daughters are: Sarah Jane, m. Baxter Whitney, lixing in
Winchendon, Mass., three children living: Eunice Matilda m. John G. Folsom, living in Winchendon,
four sons living.

t Deed at Cambridge, Feb. 9, I79.'5.

I20 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

which stood near the old meeting house until a few years ago,
when "a certain rich man" removed it, thereby destroying, no
•doubt, the historic arch which had preserved that sacred com-
munion plate. But the old elm tree that he planted, in the
seventeenth century, near his house, had roots too deep to be
disturbed, and as it had no commercial value, it stands there
yet, as a monument to his memory.

This "old block" had sheltered a truly patriarchal family.
Lieut. Emerson Cogswell had three wives, and there were at
least seven sets of children in his house at one time. Some of
his children married and lived at home, and from time to time
the "old block" was enlarged to accommodate their growing
needs. His mother, Mary (Pecker) Cogswell, kept school for
the children, and Eunice Robinson, his first mother-in-law,
widow of Dr. Jeremiah* Robinson, who owned the Bible, helped
"do the dishes." Two of his third wife's children married his
children, while his daughter Martha married his sister's son
William'^; and her youngest child, William'^ Stevens Robinson,
was born there in the "old block." Is it any wonder that in
some of the earlier town records of Concord Emerson Cogswell
is called "a gentleman," while in some of the later ones he is
written down as "a tavern keeper"? He and his first wife,
Eunice Robinson, are buried side by side in the "old burying
hill," near the powder house, where their gravestones, with others
of the family, can be seen to-day. They have no descendants
"by the name of Cogswell." Their last surviving grandson,
William Emerson, d. February, 1856, and had no living children.

The children of William'' and Martha Cogswell Robinson
were:

1. Elbridge Gerry, born in Concord, Mass.. June 24, 1805.
married Martha Cogswell Frothingham, May 5, 1836, died July
II, 1854. She died May 11, 1894. He was a brilliant jour-
nalist. Their children (to live) are: Mary Frothingham Robin-
son, born March 13, 1838; unmarried. Nathaniel Frothingham
Robinson, born Oct. 29, 1843, died May 20. 1865, unmarried.
He was a corporal in the Salem Light Infantry, 15th Massachu-
setts Regiment, was at the siege of Port Hudson and "served
with great credit."

2. Susan, born July 17, 1807, died Oct. 20, 1843, unmarried.

3. Benjamin Franklin, born March 26, 1809, married first

JOHN ROBINSON OF EXETER i2t

Paulina Fuller, second Mary Turner; died April 9, 1884. One
son, Charles Fuller, died unmarried.

4. Jeremiah Albert, born May 31, 1812, married Harriet
Amelia Brown; died March 3, 1897. Their children are: Jere-
miah Emerson, born Dec. 20, 1832, married Josephine Carpen-
ter Sept. 19, 1861. Two daughters and one son, William
Herbert. Martha Harriet, born Jan. 18, 1835, niarried May 17,
1855, Charles H. Mc Arthur; five children. William Franklin,
born Feb. 12, 1837, died at Tucson, Ariz., May 11, 1867, un-
married. He was captain in the 4th Michigan Regiment during
the Civil War, was at the battle of Gettysburg, and was "noted
for his most gallant conduct." He was wounded there and taken
prisoner. Caroline Maria, died young. Lucy Caroline, born
January, 1842, married Julius K. Graves of Dubuque, la., Sep-
tember, i860; six children. Addison Brastow, married Mary
Elizabeth Hayden; one daughter, born 1893. Susan (a twin),
born March 12, 1848, married Benj. B. Fay. Oct. 10, 1872; three
children. Albert (a twin), born March 12, 1848, married Jennie
May Baker; three children. One, "Addison Baker," is one of
the two living grandsons (the other is "William Herbert") of
William'' and Martha Cogswell Robinson, to bear up the name
of "Robinson." At this date (1906) there is no issue. Mary
Brown, the last of the children of Jeremiah Albert, was born
June 18, 1850, and is unmarried.

To return to the children of William" and Martha Cogswell
Robinson, his wife:

5. Lucy Call, born Feb. 5, 1816, married John W. Green
Dec. 4, 1838, died Oct. 20, 1840: no issue.

6. William^ Stevens, born in Concord. Mass., Dec. 7, t8i8,
married Harriet Jane Hanson, Nov. 30, 1848, died March 11,
1876. He was a journalist and parliamentarian, author of "War-
rington's Manual of Parliamentary Law," and of the famous
"Warrington" letters (1856-1876) during our Civil War. pub-
lished in some of the leading newspapers of the countrw He
was a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives
i852-'53, secretary of the Constitutional Convention of 1853. and
clerk of the Massachusetts House of Representatives 1862-1873.

Harriet Hanson Robinson, lineal descendant of Thomas
Hanson of Dover, N. H. (1657). and Nicholas Browne of Lynn
and Reading, Mass. (1638), was l)orn in Boston, ]\Iass.. Feb. 8.

122 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

1825. She was a contributor to the "Lowell Ofifering," a pub-
lication of the factory girls of Lowell, Mass. (i840-'5o); author
of "Warrington Pen-Portraits" — a compilation of her husband's
writings (1848-1876) with memoir, 1877; "Massachusetts in the
Woman Suffrage Movement," a history. 1881, 1883; "The New
Pandora," a dramatic poem, 1889; and "Loom and Spindle, or
Life Among the Early Mill Girls," 1898. She lives at the family
home in Maiden, Mass.

The children of William' Stevens and Harriet Hanson Rob-
inson are:

1. Harriette Lucy^, born in Lowell, Mass., Dec. 4, 1850,
married Sidney Doane Shattuck of Maiden, June 11, 1878; au-
thor of the "Woman's Manual of Parliamentary Law," 1891;
"Shattuck's Advanced Rules," 1898; "Story of Dante's Divine
Comedy," and "Little Folk East and West."

2. Elizabeth Osborne^ born in Lowell, Sept. 11, 1852, mar-
ried George Smith Abbott of Waterbury, Conn., Alay 14. 1885;
a graduate of Miss Lucy Symonds' Kindergarten Training
School, class of 1883, and one of the pioneer kindergartners in
Connecticut.

3. William Elbridge^ born in Concord, Mass., Oct. 6, 1854,
died in Maiden, Mass., Dec. 14, 1859.

4. Edward Warrington^, born in ]\Ialden, Mass., May 4,
1859, married in Denver. Col., Nov. 11, 1893, ]^lary Elizabeth
Robinson of Yorkshire, England. He died in Telluride, Col.,
Jan. 8, 1904, and is buried in Denver, Col. He was police magis-
trate of San Miguel County, Colorado, and during the great
miners' strike in that State in 1903 be, as "Judge Robinson."
was the first to apply the "vagrant act" of his city "to crowds
who were collecting and were liable to provoke a breach of the
peace," and by this action succeeded in clearing Telluride of
"vagrant" miners. He took a great responsibility, and his orig-
inal manner of procedure received much commendation, not only
in Colorado, but in other States.

The livins: grandchildren of William" Stevens and Harriet
Hanson Robinson are:

1. Robinson'' Abbott, born in Waterbury, Conn., July 3,
1891.

2. Martha'^ Harriet Abbott, born in Waterbury, Conn., May
28, 1893.

JOHN ROBINSON OF EXETBR 123

3. Harriet'' Hanson Robinson, born in Pueblo, Col., j\Iay
26, 1895.

4. Lucy'' Wynyard Robinson, born in Telluride, Col., Jan.
I, 1899.

William" Stevens Robinson was the vouno;est of a famliv of
six children, four of them boys, and in his personale, as well as in
his mental characteristics, he bore little resemblance to any of
his brothers — except the eldest. And those of us who are ob-
servers of family traits and hereditary tendencies will be inter-
ested to read here a description of the character of the Rev.
John Robinson, which I submit to "Warrington's" old-time
friends, hoping that they may detect, as I do, a more than com-
mon resemblance in the mental characteristics of the two men.

Governor Bradford, in his "Dialogues," in speaking of the
Rev. John Robinson of Leyden, said of him: "Of learned and
solid judgment, of a quick and sharp wit, yet tender in his con-
science and sincere in all his ways, he was a hater of dissimula-
tion and would be very plain with his best friends. He was
affable and courteous, yet so acute in disputation as to be much
dreaded. He was never satisfied till he had searched a matter
to the bottom, and was accustomed to say that he had 'answered
others, but not himself.' Through his singular ability, he was
also a fit manager of . . . civil affairs."

Says the Greek dramatist: "A man is known by his chil-
dren." And, may we not add: to the third and fourth, and even
to the seventh and eighth generation of them that love and revere
his memory, and try to follow in his footsteps.

ISAAC ROBINSON

SON OF REV. JOHN ROBINSON OF LEYDEN, HOLLAND, AND
SOME OF HIS DESCENDANTS

BY

Mrs. Lucretia (Robinson) Storms.

AVING been asked by a number of the members
of the Robinson Association about my Hne of
ancestry from the Rev. John Robinson, and invited
by the secretary to send in my genealogical paper,
I do so hoping other members may find help in
connecting family links in their ancestral search,
I must before speaking of the son Isaac, who was
one of the founders of the State of Massachusetts,
mention the father, Rev. John Robinson of Ley-
den, who was born in Lincolnshire, England, in 1575, entered
Corpus Christi College at Cambridge in 1592, made a fellow in
1598, resigned in 1604 and gathered a congregation at Lincoln-
shire and with them fled to Amsterdam, Holland, in 1608, re-
moved from thence to Leyden, Holland, in 1609, where he died
March i, 1625, and was buried beneath the pavement of St.
Peter's Church. He married about 1605 Bridget White. Their
children, as shown by the census taken in Leyden in 1622, were
as follows:

John, born in England, about 1606.

I.
2.

3-
4-

5-
6.
7. A child

Bridget,

Isaac,

Mercy,

Favor,

Jacob,

Levden.

1608.
1610.
1612.
1615.
1621.
1623.

Isaac Robinson, the third child of the Rev. John Robinson,
came to America in 163 1, in the ship Lyon. In the passenger
list his age is given at twenty-one. Settled first in Scituate,
where he was freeman of the colony in 1633, joined the church in

ISAAC ROBINSON OF BARNSTABLE 125

Scituate November 7, 1636. On the 20th of February he sold
his estate of twelve acres of land and the house which he built to
John Trisden, which was then described as being the fifth lot
from Coleman's Hill. In 1639 he removed to Barnstable. He
took a letter of dismission from the church in Plymouth and
joined the Rev. Thomas Lathrop on the 7th of July. His first
estate in Barnstable was opposite that of Governor Hinckley.
This he also sold and took twenty acres further to the west. In
1639 and 1648 he was a member of the Grand Inquest of the
Colony; in 1641 he was on the jury for trials; in 1645 he was a
deputy from Barnstable to the General Court at Plymouth; in
1646,-' 47-' 48 he was a "receiver of excise" for the town, and in
1650 again deputy. In 1660, Jonathan Hatch of Boston, with
Isaac Robinson and twelve others purchased the plantation of
Succamsset, now Falmouth. His party bought their land of the
Indian chief Ouachatesset, by permission of the General Court.
In 1673 he again removed to Tisbury, Martha's Vineyard, where
he was a "recorder." For several years he was its selectman.
In 1700 he had divided his estate equally between his three sons,
and in 1701 he deeded the homestead and its garden to Isaac, Jr.
This was the first house built in Falmouth, standing on the south
side of Fresh Pond. In November, 1701. he removed to Barn-
stable and made his home with his daughter Fear, the wife .of
Rev. Samuel Baker, where he died at the age of ninety-four in
1704. At the age of ninety-two he was represented as a hale
and vigorous man, with locks as white as the drifted snow. "A
venerable man," writes Prince in his Annals, "whome I have
often seen." Prince asserts that he was chosen assistant to the
Governor of the colony in 1646, and in 1647 he was again chosen
as assistant to the Governor.*

He was for a time disfranchised on account of his sympathy
for the Quakers, but was restored to citizenship by Governor
Winslow in 1673. He married first at Scituate January 27, 1636.
Margaret Hanford of Scituate. She was a sister of the Rev.
Thomas Hanford and niece of Timothy Hatherly. She died June
13, 1649. Their children were: i. Susannah, liorn at Scituate
Jan. 21, 1637, died before 1664. 2. John, born at Barnstable
April 5, 1640: w^ent from Falmouth to Connecticut in 1714. 3.

* The name of Isaac Robinson does not appear in the list of .\ssistants to the Gov-
ernors as published in the < )lil Colony Records.

126 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Isaac, born in Barnstable Aug. 7, 1642, married Ann ; was

drowned at Falmouth Oct. 6, 1668. The decision of the inquest
appointed to view the body is preserved as a specimen of the
style of the time: "Wee the jury of inquest appointed to view
the corpse of Isaac Robinson, Jr., do apprehend according to
view and testimony that the means of his death was by going
into the pond to fetch two geese which we conceive to be the
instrumental cause of his death, he being entangled therein."
4. Fear, born at Barnstable Jan. 26, 1644, married Rev. Samuel
Baker of Barnstable. 5. Mercy, born at Barnstable July 4, 1647,
married William Weeks, March 16, 1669. 6. A daughter, June
6, 1649.

In 1650 Isaac married his second wife, Mary (not the

sister of the "famous Elder Faunce of Plymouth," as has been
claimed.)* Children by Mary: 1. Israel, born in Barnstable
Oct. 5, 1651 ; after the death of his brother Isaac in 1668, he took
the name of Isaac. 2. Jacob, born in Barnstable May 10, 1653,
hiarried Experience; died 1733. 3. Peter, born in Barnstable
1655; said to have gone to Norwich, Conn. 4. Thomas, born in
Falmouth 1666-7. Some authorities state that he removed to
Guilford, Conn., but we find no proof of it.

John, the second child of Isaac, born in Barnstable April 5,
1640, was a Representative from the town of Falmouth in
1689- '90- '91. He removed to Connecticut in April, 1714, mar-
ried Elizabeth Weeks May i, 1667.

Their children were: i. John, born in Falmouth March 20,
1668. 2. Isaac, born in Falmouth Jan. 30, 1670. 3. Timothy,
born in Falmouth Oct. 30, 1671. 4. Abigail, born in Falmouth
March 20, 1674. 5. Fear, born in Falmouth June 16, 1676.
6. Joseph, born in Falmouth March 31, 1679. 7. Mary. 8. A
son, born Dec. 12, 1683, died Dec. 16. 1683. 9. A daughter, born
May I, 1687, died Aug. 4, 1688.

Timothy, third child of John, married May 3, 1699, Mehitable
Weeks. Their children, were: i. Mehitable, born in Falmouth
Feb. 28, 1 701. 2. Thomas, born in Falmouth April 3, 1703.
3. Rebecca, born in Falmouth June 9, 1706. 4. Timothy, born
in Falmouth June 17, 1713. 5. John, born in Falmouth Aug. 30,
1716. 6. William, born in Falmouth Aug. 10, 1719.

* Sergeant Harlow married Mary Faunce .Tuly 15, 1658. She died his widow, Oct.
4. 1664.

ISAAC ROBINSON Of BARNSTABLE 127

Thomas Robinson, second child of Timothy, Sr.. Ijorn in
Fahnouth April 3, 1703. married Mary Robinson Sept. 2T,, 1725.
Tlieir children were: 1. Deliverance, born at Falmouth. 2.
Zephaniah, born at Falmouth July 26, 1729. 3. Paul, born at
Falmouth Aug. 11, 1731. 4. Rhoda. born at Falmouth Feb. 17.
^735- 5- Pai^il. born at Falmouth April 20, 1734. 6. Mary, born
at Falmouth Feb. 12, 1738. 7. Thomas, born at Falmouth June

13- 1741-

Zephaniah Robinson, second child of Thomas, born in
Falmouth July 26, 1729, died in Livermore, Me., March 27, 1805.
married first Ann Hatch of Falmouth; second, married Jediah
West of Rochester, Feb. 27, 1756, by whom he had: i. Shadrach,
born in Falmouth. 2. Stephen, born in Falmouth. 3. Thomas,
born in Falmouth. 4. Cornelius, born in Falmouth. 5. James, born
in Falmouth. 6. Zephaniah, born in Falmouth. 7. Rhoda.
born in Falmouth. 8. Juda, born in Falmouth April 18, 1777.
died 1778. 9. Anna, born in Falmouth Sept. 19, 1779, died 1814.
10. Seth, born in Falmouth. 11. Ellis, born in Falmouth July
2, 1783, died 1832. 12. Paul, born in Falmouth June 17, 1785,
died 1863. 13. Weston, born in Falmouth Aug-. 2, 1789. dierl
1863. 14. Phebe, born in Falmouth July 13, 1790, died 1863.

Many dates not given. As a descendant facetiously re-
marked, "Zephaniah, Anna and Jediah must have been so busy
looking after their fourteen children that it is not to be wondered
at that dates were in part overlooked by them. It must have
been quite a task to find appropriate names even."

Shadrach Robinson, son of Zephaniah, born in Falmouth
February 2, 1758, died April 6, 1842. married Deborah Robinson,
the daughter of Jeremiah Rol)inson who was the son of Peter
and Martha Robinson. Shadrach removed to Chilmark.
Martha's \'ineyard, from Naushon, 1810. His house is still
standing, surrounded by the hills of the western part of Martha's
Vineyard. At the age of eighteen he served in the War of the
Revolution. Their children were: i. John, born October 3.
1781. 2. Jediah, born June 2, 1783, died January, 1820. in
Chilmark. 3. Anne, born March 15, 1785. died May i.
1850, in Livermore, Me. 4. Abigail, born Sept. 5, 1788.
died at West Tisbury, Martha's Mneyard, Nov. 17. 1885.
at the advanced age of ninety-seven years. She joined
the Chilmark church in 1812. Her father's house was long

128 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

the home of the early Methodist preachers, and meetings were
held there before any house of worship had been built. During
her early life she taught school in various places on the island,
was a Sunday-school worker, and sometimes superintended the
school. Her memory and mental faculties remained unimpaired
until nearly the last. 5. Rebecca, born April 30, 1790, died 1877
at West Tisbury. 6. Henry Robinson, born Nov. 18, 1792, died
at Edgartovvn, Martha's Vineyard, June 25, 1872, married Lucre-
tia Adams at West Tisbury. They had six children. Hannah,
the seventh child of Shadrach, born Aug. 9, 1795, died at West
Tisbury Oct. 1882. 8. James, born Sept. 21, 1797, died 1799.
9. Delia, born June 25, 1800, died Jan. 12, 1891, at West Tisbury.

Lucretia Adams was the daughter of James Adams, b. Sept.
30, 1754, and Dinah Allen, b. 1753, d. November, 1844, his wife.

James Adams was the son of Mayhew Adams, b. Dec. 22,
1729, d. Oct. 2, 1823, and Rebecca Mayhew, d. July 11, 1819, his
v^ife.

Mayhew Adams was the son of Eliashib* Adams, b. IMay 9,
1699, and Reliance Mayhew, m. Feb. 18, 1729, his wafe.

Eliashib Adams was the son of Edward Adams and Eliza-
beth Walley, m. May 19, 1629, his wife.

Edward Adams was the son of Edward Adams, d. Nov. 12,
1 71 6, and Lidia , his wife.

Edward Adams was the son of Henry Adams, d. Oct. 8,
1646, and , his wife.

Henry Adams was bom in Devonshire. England. Came to
America 1632; 1635 settled at Braintree, now Quincy. He was
the ancestor of John Adams, President of U. S. A.

* What first brought Eliashib Adams to the shores of Martha's V'ineyard is un-
known to us, but he settled in Chilmark, and on Feb. 18, 1729, married Reliance iNIay-
hew, daughter of Rev. Experience Mayhew.

SHADRACH ROBINSON HOUSE

HISTORY OF THE FELL, HAMER AND
ROBINSON FAMILIES

BY

Mrs. Emily \^icks Hamer (Henry Clay) Holbrook

Atlanta, Ga.
I.

THE FELLS

HE Fells* derive their name from the district of
Furness Fells — the general name for High Fur-
ness in England. They were one of the most
ancient families in Furness. The Fells of Redman
Hall are known to have been there for nineteen
generations. Another family of the same rank,
and doubtless of the same antiquity, were the Fells
of Hawkswell. Another are the Fells of Swarth-
moor Hall. Still another the Fells of Dalton
Gate. The Fells of Dane Ghyll Flan How near Furness Abbey
are of the same family as the Fells of Swarthmoor Hall. Long-
lands — the ancestral home of one branch of the family of Fells,
is about seventeen miles from Keswick. The estate of Long-
lands is known to have been owned by the Fells more than six
hundred years. In the rear rises the mountain known as Long-
lands Fell, and about a mile distant is the renowned Skiddaw
mountain. There is a spring on the fell behind the house which
has supplied it with water for many centuries. The House of
Longlands is a long, solidly built structure, of old red sandstone.
A family house of many rooms, all of which have joist ceilings.
The steps of the stairway are also of red sandstone, worn away
on the baluster side. The window frames are small, with small
diamond-shaped window panes. Over one of the doorways is a
stone bearing this inscription: J. R. F. 1688. A wing rebuilt or
added to, by the eldest son of John and Margaret Fell six years

\^ S^ S^ v^ s§
S^ v.^ N.^ S^ N^

s^ v^ v^ s^ s^

\^ S^ S^ S^ N^

* From Genealogy of the Fell Family.

I30 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

after his marriage, from the fact of Longlands having been owned
by the Fells of Longland for more than six hundred years. An
ancient branch of the family are the Fells of Dalton Gate. The
following narrative is a copy of the original, written by Joseph
Fell, and found among some old papers in the garret of the old
house in Buckingham, where it had lain unnoticed for more than
fifty years, and dated "Buckingham, the sixth day of the 12th
month 1744."

"A narrative or an account of my birth and transactions of
life from a child to old age. I was born at Longlands, in the
Parish of Uldale, in the County of Cumberland in old England.
My father's name was John Fell, my mother's name was Mar-
garet Fell. I was born in the year 1668, on the nineteenth day
of October. My father dyed when I was about two years old,
and my mother lived about 20 years a widow. When I was in
the 30th year of my age, I came to this country. Took shipping
at White Haven in Cumberland. Mathias Gale Captain of the
Shipp. He victualled the shipp at Belfast in Ireland. We
stayed about a week there and got sail again, and after we left
sight of Ireland, in 29 days, we came in sight of land near the
Capes of Virginia. And our ship was called Cumberland, and
they cast anchor in the mouth of Potomeck River, and we went
ashore in Virginia, and there we got a shallop to Choptand- in
Maryland, and from thence to Frenchtown, and so to Newcastle,
and then we took boat to BristoU in this county 1705."

There is much more of this interesting "narrative," but this
will suffice to tell how the first Fell came to America. He was
followed by Edward and William Fell early in 1700, who also
came from Cvmiberland in England, and settled "Fells Point" in
Baltimore.

William Fell married Lucy , and had issue a daugh-
ter, Lucy Fell, who married John Robinson, son of John Robin-
son of Middlesex County. \'irginia. They had a family of chil-
dren, some of whom remained in Mrginia and Baltimore. One
son, John Robinson, came into Georgia between the years of 1776
and 1780, and married Mary, the daughter of John and Mary
Raymond of Augusta, Ga. They had a large family of childreii.
One son, William Fell Robinson, married Elizabeth, daughtei
of James Hutchinson -and Cythea Clarke of Augusta, Ga., and
removed to Claiborne County, Mississippi. They had four chil-

FELLS OF DALTON GATE.

FELLS OF LONGLANDS.

FELLS OF SWARTHMOOR HALL.

132 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

dren, Amazon, James Fell, Eliza, and Caroline. Amazon Rob-
inson married William Hicks Hamer, son of Charles Hamer and
Elizabeth Hicks. Issue: Charles Hicks Hamer, Malachi
Bedgegood Hamer, Caroline Hicks Hamer, Mary Robinson
Hamer, William Henry Clay Hamer, Charles Franklin Hamer,
Emily \'ick Hamer, Amazon Medora Hamer.

Emily Vick Hamer married Henry Clay Holbrook, son of
Edward Holbrook and Araminta Dormer Atkinson of Louisville,
Ky. — formerly of Baltimore, Md. — and had issue, Mary Eliza
Holbrook, William Hamer Holbrook, Edward Atkinson Hol-
brook.

Mary Eliza Holbrook married Clarke Palmer Cole, son of
Moses Cole and Amelia Clarke of Atlanta. Ga., and had issue —
Mary Holbrook Cole, Eugenia Clarke Cole (deceased), Marshall
Clarke Cole (deceased).

FELLS OF DALTON GATE.
BURKE'S PEERAGE.

Arms. Or. three lozenges conjointed in fesse az. on the
middle one a Catherine wheel thereon a cross pattee fitchee of
the first, in chief a rose between a portcullis and a leopard's face
of the second, all within a bordure gu, charged with three loz-
enges and as many escallops, alternately ar.

Crest. A dexter arm embowed in armour ppr garnished or.,
holding in the hand ppr. a tilting spear ppr.

Motto. Patribus et posteritati.

H.
CAPTAIN RALPH HAMER

BY

Mrs. Emily Vicks Hamer Holbrook

From The First Republic in America. — Brown.

Capt. Ralph Hamer left London with Lord De La Warr,
sailing from "Cowes" on the De La Warr, April the nth, 1610,
accompanied with the "Blessing of Plymouth" and the "Hercules
of Rye" — with supplies for the Colony, and about one hundred

CAPTAIN RALPH HAMER 133

and fifty emigrants, being- for the most part artificers, including
"Frenchmen, to plant vines," and "William Henrich Faldoe, a
Swiss, to find mines," accompanied by "Knights and Gentlemen
of Quality." Lord De La Warr reached Jamestown with his
ships on Sunday, June the 20th., 1610.

June the 22nd. the Lord Governor and Captain General or-
ganized the Government of the Colony, under the Charter to the
Company (The Virginia Company of London) whicli it was
deemed best to make as strong and absolute as possible, "in the
beginning." On the same day the "Lord Governor elected unto
himself a Council" and constituted and gave places of office and
charge, to divers Captains and Gentlemen, unto all of whom he
administered oath of faith, assistance, and secrecy, mixed with
the oath of allegiance and Supremacy to his Majesty (James L)."
Ralph Hamer was made clerk of the Council. January 161 2
Ralph Hamer was Secretary of the Colony. July 161 3 Ralph
Hamer writes: "Argall furnished us by two trading voyages
with 2300 bushels of corn, (besides supplying his own men) estab
lished peace by the capture of Pocahontas, repaired our weather-
beaten boats, and furnished us with new also, both strong and use-
ful." March ist., 1614 while they were up the Pamaunkie (now
known as York River) "parleeing with the Indians" Capt. Ralph
Hamor (Hamer) made known to Sir Thomas Dale, the love
which had long existed between his friend, John Rolfe and Poca-
hontas, by delivering to Sir Thomas, a letter from Rolfe explain-
ing the situation. Hamer, with Thomas Savage as interpreter,
and two Indian guides, left Bermuda City early in the morning
of May the 25th. on a visit to Powhatan, and returning arrived
in the night of May the 29th. He afterward published a long
account of this visit in his "True Discourse of the Present Estate
of Virginia" (161 5). In this book he gives a description of the
country, condition of the Colony, with an account of the Settle-
ments at that time. This book was discovered in London by
Mr. Conway Robinson of Richmond, A"a., and jiresented to the
Virginia Historical Society.

London. Oct. 30th. 1614, "In the Treasurer, just from \'ir-
ginia, arrived Capt. Ralph Hamer, late Secretary of the Colony,
and entered at Stationer's Hall, for publication, his "True Dis-
course of the Present Estate of Virginia, and the successe of
the affaires there till the i8th. of June 1614, etc." It is dedicated

134 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

to Sir Thomas Smith, whom he praises greatly for "upholding
of this imployment, though it appeared in the beginning, as full
of discouragement."

Nov. 28th., 1616, Ralph Hamer having returned from Eng-
land, "the Preparative Court was held, and on the 30th. the
Michaelmis Quarter Court, at which Admiral Samuel Argall, was
elected to be the present Deputy Governor in Virginia, Capt.
Ralph Hamer, \^ice-Admiral, Capt. John Martin — Master of the
Ordnance, and John Rolfe, Secretary and Recorder."

Jan. 18th. 1617 at a meeting of the Company, Capt. Ralphe
Hamer had eight shares given him, and at another meeting, one
week later, "Bills of Adventure were allowed to Capt. Ralph
Hamer for every man transported at his charge, being to the
number of 16."

]\Iay 27th. or 28th. Argall, accompanied by Vice- Admiral
Ralph Hamer, and John Rolfe, Secretary and Recorder, went up
to Jamestown, where he "found all boats out of repair" and sends
Captain Alartin's pinnace to the North to "fetch the boats ye
fishing Company" gave him.

In April 162 1, Sir Edward Peyton on "a petition from two
Captains, Planters in Virginia: — Ralph Hamor and Wm.
Tucker," had drafted "An Act fo'r Restraint of the inordinate
use of tobacco."

At the Mrginia Court of March 23, 1621 Mr. Ralph Hamer
passed six shares of his stock in the Virginia Company to Thomas
Melling, and Capt. Ralph Hamer passed two shares to Henry
Hutchinson."

Nov. 28th. 1 62 1 Sir George Yeardley's term as Governor
expired, and Sir Francis Wyatt succeeded him. "Among the
documents brought from England by him, were his own com-
mission, and the commissions of the sundry recently appointed
officials of the Council of State:"

Sir Francis Wyatt, Governor.

Captain Francis West "x

Sir George Yeardsley >■ Marshals of Virginia.

Sir William Newce '

Ralph Hamer
John Rolfe
Roger Smith
and others, J

>■ King's Council.

CAPTAIN RALPH HAMER 135

Tlie Court of July 20th. 1621 ordered Sir Francis Wyatt
and the Council "to set out the land given the widow of Capt.
Christopher Newport (he having been killed by the Indians).
Capt. Ralph Hanier was given order to see it done according to
Mrs. Newport's desire.""

At this time came a big uprising of the Indians. "So sud
den in their cruel execution, that few or none discerned the
weapon or blow that brought them to destruction." John
Berkely and John Rolfe were killed. Towards evening after the
slaughter "Captain Hamer went out with a "ship and pinnace to
Flowerlieu Hundred, trying to save such people" as might have
"lyen wounded'" at the different Plantations.

On June 27th. Hamer made an agreement with the King of
Potomac against Opechancanough "their and our enemy." He
also slew divers of the Necochincos, that sought to "circumvent
him bv treacherie." June 1622 "Hamer was a second time em-
ployed to the Potomacs" but they "likewise proved our most
treacherous enemies, cunningly circumventing" and "cruelly
murdering such as were employed abroad, to get relief from
them, and Hamer slew more of them."

London: Oct. 2nd., 1622: — At the Virginia Court, a letter
from Capt. Hamer in Virginia, was read.

Late in March 1623 a suit comes up before the Council oi
State, which Council was composed of

Governor Wyatt,

Sir George Yeardley,

Mr. George Sandys,

Ralph Hamer,

George Pountis (Pryntz)

Roger Smith.
The General Assembly met Feb. 29th. 1624. George Yeard-
ley, Ralph Hamer, Sir Francis Wyatt and others, thirty-one in
number, sent in Report of condition of Colony to England signed
bv members of the King's Council and House of P.urgesses.

The "Anne" arrived in Mrginia soon after March 6th. 1625
with the Royal Conmiission of Sept. 5th. 1624 authorizing Sir
Francis Wyatt to be the Royal Governor and Sir George Yeard-
ley, Ralph Hamor (and others) to be the King's Council in \'ir-
ginia, to "govern the Colony temporarially until .some other con-
stant and settled course could be decided ui^on and established

136 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

by the King." There was nothing in the Commission to en-
courage the hope for a continuance of popular rights. There
was no provision for a House of Burgesses, nor General Assem-
bly. The King had now resumed the Government of the Colony.

Resumed by the Crown.

England and Virginia James I.

June 26th. 1624

April 6th. 1625

Charles ist. April 6th. 1625 to Feb. 1627.

March 14th. 1626 "Charles I. being forced by many other

urgent occasions (in respect of our late accessments unto the

Crown) to continue the same means that was formerly thought

fit for the maintenance of the said Colony and Plantation until

we shall find some other more 'convenyent' means upon mature

advice to give more ample Directions for the same, and reposing

assured Trust and confidence in the understanding, Care, Fideli-

tie, Experience and circumspection of them, appoint Sir George

Yeardley to be his present Governor. Francis West, George

Sandys, Ralph Hamer, William Tucker, Roger Smith (and

others) his present Council in Virginia, with very much the same

powers as previously granted in the Royal Commission since

1624."

Captain Ralph Hamer went to Virginia in 1610. Returned
to England in 1614. Returned to X^irginia 8th of Jan. 1617,
bringing with him his wife, Elizabeth (her two children) Jeremy
and Elizabeth Clement, his Father, Ralph Hamer. Sr., his
brother, Thomas. Capt. Hamer was a member of the King's
Council in Virginia from 161 1 to 1628 and "possibly after."
Was Colonial Secretary from 161 1 to 1614, was Captain in the
Army and Vice- Admiral.

From Virginia Colonial Register:
Ralph Hamer (Hamor in duplicate). Born in England.
Died about March 1627-8.

"Being the muster of the inhabitants of James Cittie, taken
the 24th. of January, 1624. Captain Ralph Hamer (Hamor in
duplicate.). Muster of Capt. Ralph Hamer:
Capt. Ralph Hamer,
Mrs. Elizabeth Hamer,

Jeremy Clement, ) , , .. ,
r^,. / , „, I her children.

Elizabeth Clement \

:€B IN SON
BEVERLY.

COAT OF ARMS

COAT- OF ARMS
Robinson of Ireland — Rokel\' Hall

HUTC HINSOH.

COAT OF ARMS

CAPTAIN RALPH HAMER 137

Servants.
John Lightfoote, in the "Seaflouer."
Francis Gibbs, in the "Seaflouer."'
Ann Adams, her maid.
The rest of the servants, provisions, armes, tS:c., at Hog
Hand.

Hog Island.
The muster of Capt. Ralph Hamer's servants:
Jeofifrey Hull, came in the "George."
Mordecay Knight, in the "William St. George."
Thomas Doleman, in the "Returne."
Elkinton RatclifTe, in the "Seaflouer."
Thomas Powell, in the "Seaflouer."
John Davies, in the "Guifte."
"By clame in Hog Hand 250 Acres planted. Blunt Pointe.
Capt. Ralph Hamer (Hamor in duplicate) 500 acres by order of
Court."

From "Meade's Old Churches and Families":
"Mr. Hamer was a man of high standing in the Colony.
His residence was at Bermuda Hundred, a few miles only, from
Henriopolis, where Sir Thomas Dale and the Rev. Alexander
Whitaker lived. He appears to have been intimate with them
both and to have partaken of their pious spirit. It is one evi-
dence of the estimation in which he was held, that the severest
punishment ever inflicted in the Colony, was on a man who
uttered slanderous words against Mr. Hamer. Mr. Hamer's
work, from which we take the following extracts, was obtained
by Mr. Conway Robinson of Richmond, Va., on a late visit to
England, and presented to the Historical Society of Virginia. It
is the most reliable and authentic work on the early history of
Virginia. His religious character is seen in the following."
Here follows extract. "It was reprinted at Albany. New York,
in i860. Originals are preserved in the libraries of Mr. Charles
Deane, Mr. Kalbflusch, the Lenox, and the John Carter Brown.
An original in the Drake sale. March, 1883, fetched $345.00.
Quaritch prices a copy at $500.00. John Rolfe, CCCLVIIL.
mentions this tract as having been 'faithfully written by a Gent'
of good merit, Mr. Ralph Hamer.' thus endorsing the account of
his marriage and letter (CCCXXVIII)."

William Hicks Hamer. descendant of Ralph Hamer. mar-

138 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

ried Amy Robinson, daughter of William Fell Robinson, son of
John of Virginia.

III.
ROBINSON FAMILY

BY

Mrs. Emily Vicks Hamer Holbrook

*The first of the Robinson family of whom we have any
account, was John Robinson of Cleasby, Yorkshire, (England)
who married Elizabeth Potter of Cleasby, daughter of Christo-
pher Potter, from whom no doubt, the name of Christopher, so
common in the family, was derived. (Burke's Peerage gives
account of John Robinson of Crostwick in the Parish of Ronald-
kirk, CO. York. m. Anne Dent and was GreatGrandfather of the
Rev. John Robinson Lord Bishop of Bristol and London.)

The fourth son of John Robinson was Dr. John Robinson,
Bishop of Bristol, and while Bishop, was British Envoy for some
years at the Court of Sweden, writing while there, a history of
Sweden. He was also British Plenipotentiary at the Treaty of
Utrecht, being, it is supposed, the last Bishop or Clergyman
employed in a public service of that kind. He afterward became
Bishop of London, in which oflfice he continued until his death,
1723. He was twice married, but left no issue. He devised his
real estate to the eldest son of his brother Christopher, who had
migrated to what was Rappahannock, on the Rappahannock
River. He was one of the first Vestrymen mentioned on the
Vestry-book in Middlesex County, in 1664, and married Miss
Bertram. His oldest son, who inherited the Bishop of London's
estate, was John Robinson who was born in 1683, who was also
a Vestryman of Middlesex, and became President of the Council
in \"irginia. He married Catherine Beverly, daughter of Robert
Beverly, author of the "History of Virginia," published in 1708.
He had seven children; one of them named John Robinson was
Treasurer and Speaker of the Colony. Another son Henry mar-
ried a Miss Waring. Another married in New York. Christo-
l^her Robinson who first came over to Virginia, had six children.

Of John the eldest, we have already spoken. Christophe'-

* From Meade's Old Churches and Families ''n Virginia, 1857.

THE ROBINSON FAMILY 139

married a daughter of Christopher VVormley of Essex. Ben-
jamin, Clerk of Caroline County, married a Miss King, and was
the father of the Reverend William Robinson, Minister of Strat-
ton Major, in King and Queen. His daughter Clara married
Mr. James Walker of Urbanna, in Middlesex. His daughter
Anne married Dr. John Hay. Of his daughter Agatha, nothing
is known. One of the descendants of the family married Mr.
Carter Braxton, and others intermarried with the Wormlevs.
Berkeleys. Smiths, &c. The worthy family of Robinsons in
Norfolk and Richmond, also those in Hanover, were derived
from the same stock. A branch of this family moved to Canada ;
and some of them have held high civil and military stations under
the English Government there and in the Mother Country. Mr.
Speaker Robinson was held in high esteem by General Washing-
ton, as their correspondence shows. The following epitaph has
been furnished me:

epit.aph:

"Beneath this place lieth all that could die of the late worthy
John Robinson, Esq., who was a representative of the County of
King and Queen, and Speaker to the House of Burgesses alxDve
twenty eight years. How emminently he supplied that dignified
oflfice, and with what fidelity he acted as Treasurer to the Coun-
try beside, is well known to us, and it is not unlikely future ages
will relate. He was a tender husband, a loving father, a kind
Master, a sincere friend, a generous benefactor, and a solid
Christian. Go, reader, and to the utmost of your power imitate
his virtues."

The Reverend William Robinson, as appears by the follow-
ing extract of a letter to the Bishop of London, and the records .
of the Vestry-book, was ordained in 1743, and became Minister
of Stratton Major in 1744, continuing to be so until his death
in 1767 or 1768. He became Commissary in the year 1761.
Governor Faquier was much dissatisfied with his appointment,
and so expressed himself in a letter to England. The opposition
of the Governor was no sure proof of the unworthiness of Mr.
Robinson. The Governor was an arbitrary, high tempered man,
who could not brook opposition, and Mr. Robinson was no
negative, submissive character to crouch before authority. They
had had one or two serious re-encounters during the six or seven

I40 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

years of his Comniissaryship. His correspondence with the
Bishop of London on the affairs of the Church was lengthy and
able. He espoused the cause of the Clergy on the occasion of
the Two-penny Act or Option Law, with zeal and fearlessness,
though without success. He had an independent fortune of his
own, and was therefore the less liable to be charged with mer-
cenary motives. The following extract from a letter to the
Bishop of London in 1765, shows that he had reason to believe
that he still had enemies whose communications to the ears of
the Bishop were unfavorable. The continuance of his labour
during the whole of his ministry for twenty four years in the
same Parish, and where there was much of character and wealth
and talent, and such zeal and liberality in regard to all church
matters, speak well in his behalf."

Extract of letter from Mr. Robinson to the Bishop of Lon-
don, dated May 23, 1765:

"My Lord — I have some reasons to apprehend that en-
deavours have been made to prejudice your Lordship against me,
but in what particular I know not. I must therefore beg your
Lordship's patience while I give some account of myself. I was
born in Virginia. At ten years old I was sent to England for
my education, which was in the year 1729. I continued in school
in that country, until the year 1737, at which time, I was admit-
ted a Member of Oriel College in Oxford. After I had taken
my B-A degree, I was chosen by the Provost and Fellows to one
of Dr. Robinson's Bishop of London's (who was my great uncle)
Exhibitions, which I enjoyed for three years, the term limited by
his Lordship (my uncle). In June 1743, I was ordained Priest
by Dr. Gibson, Bishop of London. I returned to my native
country in the year 1744 (October). The November following
I was received into Stratton Major Parish in King and Queen
County, where I have continued Rector ever since. I can with
truth assure your Lordship, I have always lived in the greatest
harmony with my parishioners, and I believe no Minister could
be more respected by them than I am. I have always studiously
avoided giving any just cause of ofifense to anyone, especially
those in authority. Your Lordship, I hope, will excuse my say-
ing so much in my own behalf, but there is a time when it is
requisite for a man to praise himself; and as to the truths of what
I have said I can appeal to my whole Parish."

THE ROBINSON FAMILY 141

ROBINSON OF BEVERLY.
BURKE'S PEERAGE.

Lineage. John Robinson of Crostvvick in the parish of
Ronaldkirk, co. York, m. Anne Dent, and was great-grandfather
of The Rt. Rev. John Robinson, D.D. Lord Bishop of Bristol,
and afterwards of London, in the reign of Queen Anne; and of
Christopher Robinson, of Cleasby, co. York, who settled in Vir-
ginia temp. Charles IL became Colonial Secretary to Sir Wil-
liam Berkely, Governor of that Colony; and d. in 1690, aged 45.
His 2nd son, John Robinson President of the Council of Vir-
ginia, was b. in Virginia; and m. Catharine dau. of Robert
Beverly of that Colony, formerly of Beverly in Yorkshire (Eng-
land). He had issue by this marriage, six sons and two daus.

Arms. Per chevron, vert and az. on a chevron, nebule be-
tween three stags, trippant or, an unicorn's head, couped
between two cinquefoils, of the first. Crest. A stag trippant or
semee of lozenges, az,- and resting the Dexter fore-foot on a
millrind sa.

Motto. Propere et provide.

John Robinson Colonel Took oath Aug. 5, 1729. William
Robinson Gent, commissioned to be Major. Oath Sept. 7, 1743.

SOME NOTABLE FAMILIES OF AMERICA.

ROBINSONS OF IRELAND.

This branch of the Robinson family came from County
Armagh, Ireland, but are said to have lived in that country only
a short time, and to have come originally from England. The
first of the family to come to America was Alexander Robinson,
born 175 1, died August 9, 1845. About 1780 he settled in Balti-
more, Md. The Robinson arms, as represented in these pages,
are preserved upon an old wooden shield, which has been for
a number of years in the possession of Hon. Alexander Robin-
son Pendleton of Winchester, Y^l. They are identical with
those belonging to the family of Christopher and Anthony Rob-
inson of Middlesex County, \^irginia. This family came to
America many years prior to the Revolution, but it is probable
that the Baltimore and Middlesex families have a conunon an-
cestor in the Mother Countrv.

THE LINE OF SAMUEL ROBINSON

OF REHOBOTH, MASS.

BY

m

m

//\^^

1

9 5

?

9

? 9

5

^

^ 5

9

9

Ebenezer Turner Robinson, M. D.

Of Orange City, Fla.

AMUEL^, son of George the Scotchman, who settled
in Rehoboth, Mass., about the year 1640, and had
a son Ebenezer"", who was born in Rehoboth July
19, 1697, and he had a son, Dr. Ebenezer'*, who
was born at Attleboro, Mass., October 26, 1726.

The children of Dr. Ebenezer* were: i. Eben-
ezer^, who died at sea; 2. Josiah^; 3. Joseph-"'.
Josiah^ was my great-grandfather. He first mar-
ried Sally Grafton, and after her death married
Mary Parkhurst, daughter of Samuel Parkhurst, about the year
1770. The children of Josiah^ Robinson and Alary Parkhurst
were:

1. Samuel", b. June 3, 1771.

2. Mary", b. Aug. 13, 1774.

3. Sally'', b. July 26, 1776.

4. Eunice'', b. June 8, 1778.

5. Martha^ b. July 30, 1780.

6. Ebenezer", b. March 30, 1782.

7. Stephen", b. Dec. 15. 1785.

8. Harvey", b. Aug. 13, 1787.

9. Mehitabel", b. April 22, 1790.
10. Isaac", b. Sept. 28, 1795.

'Samuel" Robinson m. Abigail or Abby . They left two

sons and three daughters. They were Samuel" Parkhurst,
Charles", Tabitha'. Mary^ and Abby'. Samuel" Parkhurst m.
Helen Goodwin of East Hartford, Conn. They had one son
Edward^ and one daughter Ella^. Edward** m. a Clark. They
have two children, Alice" and Helen", and are living in New
York. Ella^ m. in California a Mr. Crowell. She died several

SAMUEL ROBINSON OP RHIIOBOTH 143

years ago, leaving a son and daughter. Tabitha" Robinson m.
an Adams for her first husband. They had two sons, John** and
Charles^. She afterwards m. an Amidon and Hved in Canterbury^
Conn., and is said to have had a daughter**. Mary' Robinson m.
Robert Fowler and has three children living. They are Mary*
Smith, Eliza- Clark and George^ Fowler. Abby" Robinson, who
m. a Harrington, was living in 1904. Charles^ Robinson left
home years ago and is not supposed to be living. This is all I
know of SamueP Robinson.

Mary*^ Elizabeth Robinson m. Elijah Dyer of Plainfield,.
Conn.; they had four children: William", Harvey' R.. Mary^
Elizabeth, and Dr. Elijah" Dyer of Norwich, Conn. William" m.
Miss James of Providence, R. I., and lived in Central Village,
Conn. Left one child who was living in 1904, named Mary"*.
Harvey" Robinson Dyer m. Sarah A. Wood, daughter of Levi
and Sally Wood. Harvey" Dyer was a farmer and lived in Can-
terbury, Conn. They left one daughter, Susan^, who m. Judge
Daniel W. Bond and lives in Waltham, Mass. They have three
children: Minnie^, Charles"' and Henry'' H. Bond. Minnie" m.
Wilber E. Barnard. Charles'' m. Viney L. Wood. He is a law-
yer in Boston. Henry" H. was in Harvard Law School in 1904
Mary' Elizabeth Dyer m. Kimball Kennedy and lived in Central
Village, Conn. Their children were: Mary^ Elizabeth, Emma"*
S., William'^ Henry, Willis* (dead), Lizzie® (single.) Mary* E.
Kennedy m. Dr. Matthew S. Nichols, D.D. S., one child living
in Providence. R. L, to wit: Walter KimbalP Nichols, who nu
Edith Martin; no children.

3. Sally''' Robinson m. Elias Shepherd of Norwich. Conn.
Family all dead.

4. Eunice'^ Robinson m. Timothy Tingley of Attleboro^
Alass. Both dead.

5. Martha" Robinson m. Deacon Jacol) Lyon of W'ost
Woodstock, Conn. The children were: Martha", Mary", Sarahs
Martha" m. Stephen" Henry Robinson, her cousin, and lived in
Providence, R. L Their children were: Sarah® M.. Stephen^ H.,
Jr., Ella®, Jacob® L.. Martha®. All dead except Stephen H.. who
is a Congregational minister in Gilmanton, N. H.

6. Ebenezer*"' Robinson, wlio m. Sarah Gardiner Congdon of
Attleboro, Mass., were my grandfather and grandmother. They
had children as follows: Hope' Grafton, b. in Plainfield ( ?). Conn.;;

144- THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Josiah' Warren, b. Canterbury, Conn., and lived in Providence.
R. I., was a graduate of Yale Medical School, and m. Dorcas
Greene. Their children were: Josiah^ W. Greene, Jr., died single
— was in the Civil War from 1861 to 1864. Henry* Greene m.
Sarah Rhodes Fisher of Providence, R. I.; no children. Emily^
Elizabeth Greene, single. Adela* Irene Greene m. George Nel-
son Sanger of South Woodstock, Conn., but lived in Providence,
R. I. Their children were: George** Nelson, no children, and
Arthur**, deceased. Abby^ Jane m. Thomas Boyd, Jr., of Provi-
dence, R. I. Children are: Clara-' Jackson, Bertha'' (deceased).
Ella® Greene and Louise". Ebenezer^ George m. Henrietta Vars.
Children are: Mary** (deceased), Lawrence'' Warwick, Philip"
Remington, Earle". Ebenezer". Sarah* Louise Robinson Greene
m. Clement Rutter Stotesbury and lives in Philadelphia, Pa. No
children.

The children of Ebenezer'' Robinson were Hope" Grafton, b.
in Plainfield (?), Conn.; Josiah" W., Mary" E., Ebenezer^ P.,
William^ R.. Harvey" G., Abby" W., Stephen" H., all b. in Can-
terbury, Conn.

Hope^ Grafton m. "Sebra" or Seabury Dart, and lived
in Providence, R. L; left three children. They were Sarah* D.,
Henry* J., and Mary* Eliza: the two latter died single. Sarah*
D. m. Thomas W. Williams of Pomfret, Conn., and survives
him; no children.

The next child of Ebenezer" Robinson was Mary'^ E., who m.
Alanson Smith of Providence, R. L Their children were: Eben-
ezer* Harvey Smith, single. Mary* S. A. Smith m. Edwin R.
Holden; they had one child, Sarah, who died in the fourth year
of her age. Henry* A. Smith m. Elizabeth Hartman of Hart-
ford, Conn.; their children were Harriet". Julia", Abby" Wood-
ward, who m. Archibald Roulston; Grace" Elizabeth, who m.
Peleg W. Barber; Joseph" Henry. William* R. Smith, Charles*
H. Smith, died young. Julia* J. Smith m. a Harris; no children.
Ebenezer" P. Robinson, who was my father, m. Jane Burr, who
died at the age of twenty-nine.' Their children were: Ebenezer*
Turner Robinson, the writer of this paper; James* Henry Rob-
inson, who died in his second year. Ebenezer^ P. Robinson m.
for his second wife Anna Louisa Hicks; no children. William'
Robinson m. Elizabeth Mumford and lived in Providence,
R. L, and Brooklyn, N. Y. Their children were: Alary* Eliza-

SAMUEL ROBINSON OP REHOBOTH 145

bcth, William"' J.. Edward^ R., Henry"* A., Josephine'. Charles""
Al. Alary- E. ni. Thomas H. Wood, one child. IJelia, who died
young. William- J. m. Isabel L»raman of I Brooklyn, Conn.;
one child, a son, who is Prof. Archil)ald Rol)ins<jn of l'>oston.
Edward^ R. m. Georgiana Stone of I'utnam. Conn.; ])Oth
dead, no children. Henry"' A. m. and left a wife and children
who live in Brooklyn. N. Y. Josephine^ m. Walter Hutchins
of Pomfret. Conn.; they had one son, whose name, I believe, was
Walter". Charles"* M. m.; no children. Harvey' (V Robinson
m. Susan J. Phillips and lived in Providence, R. 1. Their chil-
dren were: Walter'"* G. Robinson, still living in (jainesville.
Fla. Harvey"* P. Robinson m. Amy Knight of Providence. R. 1.
Their children were: Kittie", who m. a Bard of Brooklyn, Conn.,
and have several children'". Harvey'* P. died in 1902, antl left a
widow and a number of children. The family live in East Green-
wich, R. L Jennie"* Robinson m. Frederick Bosworth and is
living at Warwick, R. L; no children, survive her husl)and.
Charles^ Frank Robinson m. Aliss Anthony of Indiana, l)oth
deceased. Louis'"* Elmer Robinson m. and has two children and
is living in Providence, R. 1. Thomas* Congdon Robinson
died in infancy. Annie"* Robinson, a widow, m. a \"an Demeter
and has one daughter, Emily''. Abby' Woodward Robinson
died single at the age of sixty-nine years. Stephen' H. Robin-
son died at the age of thirty-two years, the result of an accident.
having been thrown from the top of a stage coach while traveling.
He left several children, but only one survixes, who is Rev.
Stephen'"* H. Robinson of Gilmanton, X. H.

( )f mv grandfather Ebenezer Robinson, I only know that he
taught school in .\ttleboro, Mass.. when a voung man, and it is
there that I suppose he first met my grandmother ( ?). He also
served "Uncle Sam" in the War of 1812. His regiment was
stationed behind a hill, securely sheltered from the cannonade of
the British war vessels, at Xew LoncU^n, Conn.. Aly grand-
father's early life was spent in farming in Canterl)ury. Conn.,
though later on he lived in Paw tucket, R. I., from which ])lace
he removed to Providence, where he was engaged in the grocery
business for awhile. .Vfterwards he set two of his sons up in
the dry-goods business, namely. Harvey' G. and Stei)hen' II.

146 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN POLK

About the year 1846 he retired and removed to Pomfret. Conn.,
where he passed the remainder of his hfe. He lived to the good
old age of eighty-one years.

Stephen'^ Robinson, the seventh son of Josiah\ m. a Aliss
Huntington and their children were: Asabel' of Attleboro, Mass.;
Henry' and Dana' of Southbridge, Mass.; also Anna of Provi-
dence, R. I. Harvey'^ Robinson, the eiglith son of Josiah^, an
M. D., who resided in Providence, R. I., m. Abigail Wood of
Newport, R. I. They had a son Charles' and, I presume, other
children. His widow after his death went with her son-in-law,
George Tingley, to New York City to live. The ninth child was
MehitabeF Robinson, who lived with her brother Isaac's widow.
Isaac" Robinson, the tenth child of Josiah"', m. and had children
Mary" and George', one of whom died in the Carolinas.

To go back a little, Dr. Ebenezer* Robinson of Plainfield,
Conn., was born in Attleboro, Mass., October, 1726. He had a
son Joseph^, whose children were: Ruth", who m. a Howard or
Hayward of Pomfret, Conn.; Esther'' and Horace". Esther"
daughter of Joseph^ m. Dr. Hiram Cleveland of Pawtucket, R. I.
The children of Dr. Harvey" Robinson of Providence, R. I., were
Charles', Frank', Adelaide" and Penbrook".

Abby' Robinson daughter of Samuel" m. Louis Harrington
of Hartford, Conn. They had a son Clarence*. He used to be
in the foundry with Samuel' P. Robinson in Canterbury, Conn.
Mary- Fowler m. Henry Smith, who was in the Foundry Com-
pany. George* Fowler went to Plainfield and engaged in the
liverv business.

Dr. Ebenezer- T. Robinson m. Enmia L. Benjamin of New
Haven, Conn., and lived at one time in Pomfret, Conn. Their
living children are: Emna'* G., m. Jesse A. James of Seattle,
Wash, (not the outlaw), no children. Ebenezer** Benjamin, still
single and living in Savannah, Ga.

Resume: George Robinson of Rehoboth, Mass., m. Johanna
Ingraham June 18, 165 1. They had eight children, of whoni
Samuel- was the second. He was born October 3, 1654. and m.
MehitalDel Read October 10, 1688, and was my ancestor. ET^en-
ezer^ b. in Rehoboth July 19, 1697.

Dr. Ebenezer^, b. in Attleboro, ]Mass., October 26, 1726, m.
Mary Bennet in Plainfield. Conn.. November 14, 1749. His son
Josiah^ m., as I have before stated, Sally Grafton first and Mary

SAMUEL ROBINSON OF REHOBOTH 147

Parkhurst second, about 1770. Then Samuel'^ who m. Abagail
(?)

George** Kingsley Robinson, son of Harvey' C, b. in I 'om-
fret. Conn.. January 5, 1858, m. Isabel Peckhani Sayles of Provi-
dence, R. I., July 27, 1 88 1. Their children are:

Ethel Sayles", Ralph Kingsley", Philip'', Hope Grafton" — all
b. at Ocala, Fla.

In closing this I^rief paper I wish to express my gratitude
and indebtedness to Mr. Charles E. Robinson, of Plaintield,
N. J., for his indefatigable researches in tracing out the different
lines of Robinsons. When I first came in correspondence with
him I knew very little of my own line beyond my grandfather's
family — and in corresponding with my cousins, very few of .them
have taken enough interest in the matter to give me any informa-
tion relative to the younger generation. I think all will agree
with me, that this Association owes "Charles E." a debt of grati-
tude that they can never repay

Members of The Robinson Family Gen-
ealogical and Historical Association

* Deceased

HONORARY MEMBERS

*Atherton, Mrs. Sarah Robinson Peru, Huron Co., O.

*Johnson, :\Irs. Almira Pierce 76 Congress St., Milford, Mass.

Robinson, Miss Adelaide A North Ravnham. Mass.

LIFE MEMBERS

Bennett. William Robinson 803 Broadway. Chelsea, Mass.

Brewer, Prof. William H 418 Orange St., New Haven. Conn.

Cole, Lucien D Newburyport, Mass.

Comey, John Winthrop 52 West 54th St.. New York, N. Y.

Donovan. Col. John South St. Joseph, Mo.

Harris, Charles 70 Kilby St., Boston, Mass.

Jenkins, Dr. Newell Sill Thorwald, Loschwitz-bei, Dresden, Germany

Kennedy, Elijah Robinson ^^ Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, N. Y.

Larned. Charles 1004 Paddock Building, Boston. Mass.

Richards, Mrs. Helen Robinson Maiden, Mass.

Robinson, Albert O Sanbornville, N. H.

Robinson, Dr. B. A 265 Mulberry St.. Newark. N. J.

Robinson, Prof. Benjamin Lincoln.... 3 Clement Circle. Cambridge. Mass.

Robinson, Charles Edson 150 Nassau St.. New \"ork, N. Y.

Robinson, Charles Kendall 374 Ocean Parkway, Brooklyn, N. Y.

Robinson, Col. Chas. Leonard Frost Kay St., Newport, R. L

Robinson. Charles P 31 Nassau St.. Now York, N. Y.

Robinson, Charles Snelling PuebK). Col.

Robinson, Daniel Webster Burlington. Vi.

Robin.son, Hon. David Ingcrsoll Gloucester, ^L^ss.

Robinson, Emily E 1513 Corcoran St., Washington, D. C.

Robinson, Dr. Edwin Putnam 12 High St.. Newport. R. L

Robinson. Edwin Wright Punxsutawncy. Pa.

•'Robinson. Fr;ink]in 203 Cumberland .\vc.. Portland. Me.

ISO THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Robinson, Hon. Frank Hurd Hornellsville, N. Y.

Robinson, Frederick A Maiden, Mass.

Robinson, George H 36th St. and Fifth Ave., New York, N. Y.

Robinson, George O South Paris, Me. (R. F. D.)

Robinson, George W Elburn, 111.

Robinson, Hon. Gifford Simeon Sioux City, la.

Robinson. H. S 60 State St., Boston, Mass.

Robinson, John Cutler Hampton, Va.

Robinson, Capt. John Francis 1340 St. Charles St., Alameda, Cal.

Robinson, Rev. Lucian Moore 5000 Woodland Ave., Philadelphia. Pa.

Robinson, Miss Maria L 178 Main St., Orange, N. J.

Robinson. Nathaniel Emmons,

Parke Ave., Brightwood, District of Columbia.

Robinson, Miss Phebe A 19 Shores St., Taunton, Mass.

Robinson, Reuben T Concord Junction, Mass.

Robinson, Roswell R Maiden, Mass.

*Robinson, Mrs. Roswell R. (Jane A.) ^Vlalden, Mass.

Robinson, Sylvaiuis Smith Aletamora. 111.

Robinson, William A 11 Broadway. New York, N. Y.

Robinson, Willard E , Maiden, Mass.

Spaulding, Edward 40 Purchase St., Boston. Mass.

Speare, Mrs. Alden (Caroline M.)..i023 Centre St., Newton Centre, Mass.,
Verner, Mrs. Murry A. (Birdie Barbara Bailey)

Cathalyce Parke, Pittsburg, Pa.

Weeks, Mrs. Edmund Cottle 554 Park Ave., Tallahassee. Fla.

Wright, George R 7S Coal Exchange, Wilkes-Barre, Pa.

MEMBERS

Abell, James E 152 La Salle St., Chicago, 111.

*Alden, Brig.-Gen. Chas. H., M. D. (U. S. A. retired)

Government War Department, Washington. D. C.

Allen, Miss Eleanor West Tisbury, Mass.

Atherton, George Watson Peru, O.

Armstrong. Mrs. Frances Morgan Hampton, Va.

Armstrong, Mrs. Mary A. Robinson Adrian, Mich.

Austin, C. Downer 141 Broadway, New York, N. Y.

Austin, Mrs. C. Downer (Joanna) New York, N. Y.

Bailey, Mrs. Belle Robinson Patchogue. N. Y.

Barbour, Edward Russell 49 Neal St., Portland, Me.

Beeman, Mrs. Phebe Stone West Brookfield. Mass

^Bennett. Mrs. Charlotte Payson Robinson. .803 Broadway, Chelsea, Mass.

Boynton, Edgar A Hornellsville. N. Y.

Bowdish, Mrs. J. L Oneonta. N. Y.

Bowie, Mrs. Mary Robinson Uniontown. Pa.

Brainerd, Miss Harriet E 27 Messenger St., St. Albans, Vt.

Briggs. Mrs. Martha A. Robinson Providence. R. I.

MEMBERS ROBINSON FAMILY ASSOCIATION 151

Brennimau, Airs. C. D Brooklyn, la.

Brett, Ciias. Greenwood 50 Cedar St., Somerville, Mass.

Brown, Airs. Willard Ai. (Dora E. R; . .jj Welcome PI., Springfield, Alass.

Bronson, Airs. K. P. (.Ida Robinson) Chester, ill.

Burditt, Charles A 1848 Connnonwealth Ave., Boston, Alass.

Butler, Airs. Ellen Robinson Attleboro, Alass. {R. F. D., No. 4)

Byram, Joseph Robinson '. g-ii Esse.x. St., Boston, Alass.

Carter, Miss Aiartha C 143 Alain St., Oneida, X. Y.

Catlin, Mrs. Alary Robinson 304 Souih ibt. St., Rockford, 111.

Chapman, Airs. James Edwin Evanston, Wyo.

Charges, Mrs. Julia C Central Square, Oswego Co., N. Y. (Box 65)

Clark, Airs. Evelina D 125 Newton St., Marlboro, Mass.

Clarke, Aliss Alary Robinson g St. James Ave., Boston, Alass.

Clarke, Airs. George E. (Carrie S.) Algona, la.

Clark, James D Harvard, 111.

Cobb, Miss Jessie O5 Clinton PL, Newark, X. J.

Codding, Mrs. Alice A North Attleboro, Alass.

^Cogswell, Mrs. William (Luella Childs)../ Pleansant St., Aledford, Alass.

Coleman, Mrs. Emily R 1517 Perry St., Davenport, la.

Comey, Miss Hannah Robinson Foxboro, Alass.

Comey, John Winthrop 52 West 54th St., Xew^ Y'ork, N. Y'.

Comey. Aliss Vodisa J Foxboro, Mass.

Comings, Alfred Cairo, 111.

Comings, Uriel L Windsor, Vt. (Box 550)

Crawford, Airs. Alark L. ( Amie C.) . ..146 Ashland Boulevard, Chicago, 111.

Creighton, Dr. Sarah Robinson 28 West 59th St., New York. N. Y.

Crumb, Mrs. Adelaide V 147 Alain St.. Oneida, X. Y.

Cunningham, Airs. Ella Robinson

4152 West Pine Boulevard. St. Louis, Alo.

Cushman, Willard Robin.son Attleboro Falls, Alass.

Cushing, Hannah Robinson Attleboro, Mass. (R. F. D., No. 4)

Cutting, Mrs. Oliver (Lois B.) Concord, Essex Co., Vt.

Cutts. Airs. R. A 19 Walden St., Lynn, Alass.

Danielson, Simeon Danielsonville, Conn.

Day, Mrs. Clarke (Mary R. T. ) Alansion House. Brooklyn, X. Y.

Dean. Aliss Bertha L 22 Clinton St., Taunton, Alass.

*Dean, James H.. Esq 94 Dean St., Taunton, Alass.

Dean. X. Bradford 88 Dean St., Taunton, Mass.

Dean, Airs. Sarah Daggett ,^j^ Dean St., Attleboro. Alass.

Devoll, Mrs. Daniel ( Alary R. G.) Acushnet, Alass.

Donavan. Col. John South St. Joseph. Alo.

Douglass, William Robinson. .. Xew ^'ork Life Building, Ivansas City, Alo.

Dow, Herbert B 136 Congress St.. Boston, Mass.

*Dows, Miss Amanda Cazenovia, X. Y.

Dows, Airs. Judith Ellen Rol)ins(»n 73 Fr<->nt St.. Exeter, X. H.

Drinkwater, Airs. Charlotte V.

40 Berkeley St. ( Y. W. C. .\.), Boston. .Mass.
Dudley, Airs. 1 lattie L 63 Highland .\ve., Cambridge. Mass.

152 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Dyer. Benjamin F vSouth Braintree. Mass.

Eastman, Edson C Concord, N. H.

Eastman, Mrs. Edson C. (Mary L. Whittemore) Concord. X. H.

Eldridge, Mrs. J. E. (Eleanor E)....37i9 Sydenham St., Philadelphia. Pa.

Elmes, Carleton Snow Barnard. Vt.

Parson, Mrs. Robert Bruce (Clara :\1. C.) St. Charles, 111.

Farwell, Mrs. John V Lake Forest. 111.

Feakins, Mrs. :Martha Kirk Fontuna, Kas. (R. F. D., No. i)

Fish, Miss Julia F "Hillside Cottage." Martinez, Cal.

Foote, Mrs. Alary Anna A North Chelmsford, Mass.

Ford, Mrs. Mary Ella 84 Harvard St., Whitman, Mass.

Fuller. Mrs. Ann Chapman 61 10 Kimbark Ave., Chicago. 111.

*Fuller, Mrs. A. B. (Emma L) 13 Hilliard St., Cambridge. Mass.

*Fuller, Mrs. Mary R loi Austin St., Cambridgeport, Mass.

Gilmore, Abiel P. R Acushnet. Mass.

Gilmore, Mrs. Chloe CD Acushnet, Mass.

Gordon. Mrs. Lillian Sophia Robinson Leland Hotel, Emporia. Kas.

Goward. William E Easton, Mass.

Graham. Mrs. Maranda E (Robinson) Orange City, Fla.

Graves. Dr. Charles B New London. Conn.

Gra3', Mrs. Henrietta P 250 West 44th St.. New York.

Gregory, Miss Ella L Hotel Westminster, Boston, Mass.

Hall. Mrs. A. L. ( Laura Robinson) Newport, N. H.

Hall, Mrs. Geo. G. (Isabelle M.) 78 Beacon St.. Boston, Mass.

Hall. Mrs. Herbert E. (Emily A.) 66 Laurel St.. Fairhaven, Mass.

Hammond, Mrs. Ashley King (Jessie Robinson)

5727 Delmar Ave., St. Louis. AIo.

Hammond. Miss Cora E Boonton, N. J.

Harnden, Mrs. M. J Gilbert Station, la. (Box 104)

Harper, Mrs. F. B Pontiac. Mich. ( R. F. D., No. 3)

Harris. Charles 70 Kilby St.. Boston, Mass.

Haskins, Mrs. H. M. R McLean. N. Y.

Hayman. :\Irs. Mattie Knox Van Buren. Ark. (Box 3^7)

Hamilton. Mrs. Amanda Wilmarth McCreary

400 South Highland Ave.. Pittsburg. Pa.

Heath. Mrs. Elbridge P. (Bertha R) 13 Garden St.. Nashua. N. H.

Hemingway. Mrs. Celia E. R McLean. N. Y.

Hill. Mrs. Robert T. (Justina R.) 1738 Q St., Washington, D. C.

Hitch. Mayhew R New Bedford, Mass.

Hitch, Mrs. Louisa A. R 119 Mill St.. New Bdford. IMass.

Holbrook, Mrs. Henry Clay (Emily Vicks Hamer)

124 Peeples St.. Atlanta. Ga.

Holbrook. Levi New York. N. Y. (Box 536)

Holman. M. D.. D. Emory 330 West 57th St.. New York. N. Y.

Holmes, Miss Mary E Sharon. Mass.

Howland. Miss Cornelia Scriven Morristown, N. J.

Hubbard. Mrs. Chas. D. (Gertrude R.) Wyncote. Pa.

James, Mrs. J. A. (Emma Genevieve) . .411 West Galer St.. Seattle. Wash.

MEMBERS ROBINSON FAMILY ASSOCIATION 153

Jenkins, E. H. (Dirccior Coiincclicnt Agricultural Ivxpc-rinicntal Station)

Xew 1 laven. Conn.

Jenkins. James. Jr 80 Washington St., Oshkosh, Wis.

Jenkins. Leonard A Care of Klewe & Co.. New Maven, Conn.

Jenkins, Airs. Robert E. (Marcia R.) 89 East Madison St., Chicago. 111.

Jones, Airs. Calista Robinson Bradford, Vt.

KautYman, Airs. J. S York St., Blue Island, III.

Kent, Aliss Sarah E 30 Lyons St., Pawtucket, R. I.

Keyes, Arthur H Rutland, Vt.

Kimball, John E Oxford. Alass.

Kimball. Thomas Dudley 421 Olive St.. St. Louis, AIo.

Kimble, Airs. E. AI 1,22 High St., Roland, la.

Kirk. Airs. J. Frank ( Abbie F. Robinson)

94 State St.. New Bedford. Alass.

Lacy. Airs. Alary Robinson Dubuque, la.

Lakin, Airs. Augusta A Bennington, X. H.

Lane. Airs. Fannie Alinette 5025 Raymond .Ave., St. Louis, AIo.

Leach, Airs. E. G. (Agnes .A. Robinson ) Franklin, X. H.

Lee, Airs. Frederick H 20 William St.. Auburn, X. Y.

Leech. Airs. Angeline Frankfort, X. Y. ( Bo.x 297)

Lewis, Airs. F. W. (Celia L. )....28 Albion St., Alelrose Highlands. Mass.

Lewis, Airs. J. F Foxboro. Alass. ( Box 19)

Linnell, John W Alalden. Alass.

Litchfield, Wilford J Southbridge. Alass.

Little, Airs. G. Elliotte (Alary Robinson)

456 West 144th St., Xew York. X. Y.

Littlelield. Airs. Xathan W. (Alary Wheaton ) Pawtucket, R. I.

Lothrop, Airs Elizabeth H Xorth Raynham, Alass.

AIcArthur. Airs. Alartha H 403 Xorth G St.. Tacoma, Wash.

AlcClellan, Hon. Abner R Riverside. Xew Brunswick. Can.

AlcCoy, Thomas William Greenville, Aliss.

AIcDonald. Airs. Jo.,ephine E Alansfield, Alass.

AlacLachlan, Airs. Harr-et R 51 Arnold Terrace. South Orange. X. J.

AIcLaren, Airs. Sara R 35 Arch St., Piovidence, R. I.

Alaury, Airs. A'latthew Fontaine, Jr (Rose Robinson)

S70 Clenwood Ave., A\ondale, Cincinnati. O.

Aliller, Aliss Carrie E 36 Cottage St.. Lewiston. Me

Millard, Airs. De Roy (Alercy Robinson) 30 Trac\ St.. Roche-^ter. X. Y.

Aliller. Airs. Edwin C. (Ida Farr) 18 Lawrence St., Wakefield. Mass.

Aliller. Aliss Florence .An(|\man..64 Orchard St., Xorth Cambridge, Mass.

Aliller, Frank Care of D. O. Alills' Bank, Sacramento, Cal.

Alonk, Airs. Lillian 1613 South Flower St., Los .Angeles. Cal.

Aloore, Leonard Dunham 1811 Frick Building, Pittsburg. Pa.

Alower. Calvin Robinson Rockford. 111. ( Box 479)

Alurdock. ALs. Harvey K. ( E. Alcena Robinson) Cooi)erstown. X. V.

Xevins. Airs. .Anna Joscpha Shiverick Edgartown. .M.is.-.

Xichols. Airs W. F Mt. Herman. Mass.

Xorri-^, James L.. Jr 331 C St., X'. W.. Washington, D. C.

154 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

*Norton, Mrs. Mary J Wood's Hole, Mass.

Osgood, Mrs. Mary Satterfield Estherville, la.

Packard, Mrs. Fred. L. (Josephine A.) North Easton, Mass.

Packard, Mrs. Lewis S. (Abbie W.) Mansfield, Mass.

Paine, Mrs. Walter J Boston, Mass.

Payson. Mrs. Julia A Medlield, Mass. (Box 344)

*Penninian, Bethuel Xevv Bedford, Mass.

Penninian, Mrs. Eliza A 13 Elm PI., Quincy. Mass.

Penniman, George W Brockton. Mass.

Pelton, Mrs. F. Alaric (Mabel Shippee Clarke) Arden, N. C.

Pearse, Mrs. George Griswold (Mary Niles Robinson )... .Wakelield, R. I.

Perry, Henry O Fort Fairfield, Me.

Peterson, Mrs. Geo. M. (Emma Cutting Robinson) Plymouth. Mass.

Pettee, Mrs. Maria W Foxboro, Mass.

Pinney, ]\Irs. William H. (A. Augusta Robinson)

350 Central St., Springfield, Mass.

Pierce, Mrs. H. F Oronoque, Norton Co.. Kas.

Pitcher, Col. David Austin 821 A Union St.. Brooklyn. N. Y.

Poor, Mrs. Janette H Corinna. Me. (R. F. D., No. i)

Potter, Miss Emma 1745 Harvard Boulevard, Los Angeles, Cal.

Porter, Mrs. Mary E. Robinson 708 Broadway, Cliftondale, Mass.

Price, Mrs. E. R. (Ella M.) Attleboro. ALiss.

Randolph. Mrs. Geo. F. (Annie F.) . .1013 North Chales St., Baltimore. Md.

Raymond. Daniel V 35 Liberty St., New York. N. Y.

Richmond, Mrs. Howard ^2 George St., Providnce. R. I.

Richmond, Mrs. L. M Elburn, 111.

Ricker, Mrs. Lizzie P 217 West Bolyston St., Worcester, Mass.

Robinson, Rev. Albert Barnes Westfield, N. J.

^Robinson, Arthur B 40 Beach St., Somerville. Mass.

Robinson, ]\Iiss Anna B 300 Adams St., Dorchester, Mass.

Robinson, Addison Mt. Vision, Otsego Co., N. Y.

Robinson, Mrs. Annette Middletown, Conn.

Robinson. Miss Annie E 20 Webster St., Somerville, Mass.

*Robinson, Adrian G Hanford. Cal.

Robinson, Alfred J 4 State St., Bangor, Me.

Robinson, Mrs. Albert O. (Clara E) Sanbornville. N. H.

Robinson, Arthur Clear Lake. Minn.

Robinson, Abigail S Plymouth, Mass.

Robinson, Arthur S Sault Ste. Marie. Mich.

Robinson, A. Warren Napa. Cal.

Robinson, Albert William Boston, Mass. (Box 2933)

Robinson, Benjamin F Silvane Springs, Ark.

Robinson, Benjamin S Greenfield Centre, N. Y.

Robinson, Bernard Noyes 134 Boylston St., Boston. Mass.

Robinson, Miss Blanche 15 Abbot St., Dorchester, Mass.

Robinson, Mrs. Calvin L. (Elizabeth S.) . . . .420 Post St.. Jacksonville, Fla.

Robinson, Carel Ciiarleston, A\\ Va.

Robinson, Mrs. Caroline D Castine, Mo.

MEMBERS ROBINSON FAMILY ASSOCIATION 155

*Robinson, Capt. Charles A Germantown, Pa.

Robinson, Charles Albert Auburn, Me.

Robinson, Charles D Xewburg. X. Y.

Robinson, Charles E 140 Oxford St., Portland, Me.

Robinson, Charles F Xorth Raynham, Mass.

Robinson, Rev. Charles F Clinton, Conn^

Robinson, Charles Floyd 105 Washington St., Somerville. Mass.

Robinson, Charles H 3310 Tulare St., Fresno, Cal.

Robinson, Charles H Bartow, Fla.

Robinson, Capt. Charles H 322 4th Ave., Xorth Great Falls, Mont.

Robinson, Charles Henry Wilmington, X. C.

Robinson, C. H 151-153 Commercial St.. Portland, Me.

Robinson, Charles Larned 56 West 124th St., Xew York. X. Y.

Robinson, Charles L Western X'ational Bank. X'ew York, X. Y.

Robinson, Charles Mulford. . . .65 South Washington St., Rochester, X. Y.

Robinson, Charles Snelling Pueblo. Col.

^Robinson, Capt. Charles T Taunton. Mass.

Robinson. Clement F 3 Clement Circle, Cambridge, Mass.

Robinson, Hon. Clifford W Moncton, X'ew Brunswick. Can.

Robinson, Cyrus R East Concord, X. H.

Robinson, Denison Howlett Hill. X. Y.

Robinson. Doanc Aberdeen, S. D.

Robinson, Ebenezer Benjamin Savannah, Ga.

Robinson. Dr. Ebenezer Turner Orange City, Fla.

Robinson, Edward Arthur 424 Lexington St.. Auburndale, Mass.

Robinson, Edward C 906 Broadway. Oakland. Cal.

Robinson, Miss Emily A Exeter. X. H.

Robinson, Miss Emily M 48 Magnolia St., Dorchester. Mass.

*Robinson, Capt. E. ^I Phillips, Me.

Robinson, E. Gilbert Mansfield. O.

Robinson, E. Randolph Warsaw. X^. Y.

Robinson. Edmund J Spitzer Building, Toledo, O.

Robinson, Erastus Corning Alexandria, Tnd.

Robinson, Eugene M....215 Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, 111. (Room 905)

Robinson, Miss Flora B ^ledfield, Mass. (Box 344)

Robinson, Frank C East Taunton. Mass.

^Robinson. Frank Everett Detroit, Mich.

Robinson, Frank E Jewett City, Conn.

Robinson, Franklin H "Flinistone Farm." Dalton. Mass.

Robinson, Frank L Harvard, ^lass.

Robinson. Frank Parsons 47 Church St.. Burlington. Vt.

Robinson, Frank R Boston, Mass. (Box \\\^

Robinson, Francis Walter 13 Thetford Ave., Xew Dorchester, Mass.

Robinson, Rev. Fred. Arthur Milford. X. H,

Robinson, Fred. Bowen T^e Roy, X. Y.

Robinson, Dr. Frederick Converse Uniontown. Pa.

Robinson, Frederick W 458 Boylston St., Boston, >rass.

Robinson. Frank 1 88 Cross St., Somerville, Mass.

156 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

'^Robinson, George A. . West Mansfield, JMass.

*Robinson, George Champlin Wakefield, R. I.

Robinson, George Champlin. Jr 170 Hicks St., Brooklyn, N. Y.

Robinson. G. C 104 Merrimac St.. Haverhill, Mass.

Robinson. George E Palmer Block, Oconomowoc, Wis.

Robinson. George F 20 Webster Ave., Somerville, Mass.

Robinson. George H Attleboro, Mass. (K. F. D., No. 4)

Robinson. George H 301 Reed St., Moberly, Mo.

Robinson, George 1220 Penobscot Building. Detroit, Mich.

Robinson, George Rensselaer Chestnut, cor 12th St., Philadelphia, Pa.

Robinson, George W Jewett City, Conn.

Robinson, Miss Hallie Mabel Geneseo, 111.

Robinson. Dr. Hamlin Elijah Maryville, Mo.

Robinson, Mis.s Harriet A 67 Prescott St.. Newtonville, Mass.

Robinson. Miss Harriet Emily 78 Pleasant St., Attleboro, Mass.

Robinson. Mrs. Harriet H 35 Lincoln St.. Maiden, Mass.

Robinson. Miss Hannah Bowers Somerset. Mass.

Robinson. Harold L Uniontown, Pa.

Robinson, Miss Helen M McLean, N. Y.

Robinson, Miss Helen R Maiden. Mass.

Robinson. Mrs. Henry 85 Woburn St., Reading. Mass.

Robinson. Hon. Henry Concord, N. H. (Box 5)

Robinson, Henry H Rockford, 111.

Robinson. Henry M Danbury. Conn.

Robinson. Henry P Guilford, Conn.

Robinson. Henry W Lexington Ave., Auburndale. Mass.

Robinson, Brig.-Gen. H. F Phoenix, Ariz.

Robinson, H. S 60 State St., Boston, Mass.

Robinson, Herbert Jester 374 Ocean Parkway, Brooklyn, N. Y.

Robinson, Herbert L 322 4th Ave.. North Great Falls, Mont.

Robinson, Herbert S Paxton. Mass.

Robinson, Herbert Woodbury Portland. Me. (Box 723)

*Robinson, Horatio Alvin 13. Garden St.. Nashua, N. H.

Robinson, Horace Ravenna, Neb.

Robinson, Increase Waterville, Me.

Robinson. Increase Plymouth, Mass.

Robinson, Miss Isabella Howe 177 Adams St.. Dorchester. Mass.

Robinson, Dr. James Arthur 8 Portland St.. Morrisville, Vt.

Robinson, James Bartlett 307 Wethersfield Ave., Hartford, Conn.

Robinson, James Lawrence 193 North Main St.. Brockton, Mass.

Robinson. Dr. J. Blake New Castle, N. H.

Robinson, Dr. J. Franklin 15 Pickering Building. Manchester. N. H.

Robinson, John C Middleboro, Mass.

Robinson. John Cheney Jamaica. Vt.

Robinson. John Elihu Le Roy. N. Y.

Robinson, John Gerry Melrose, Mass.

Robinson, John H 55 Kilby St., Boston, Mass.

Robinson, Dr. John H Homer. N. Y.

MEMBERS ROBINSON FAMILY ASSOCIATION 157

Robinson, Jonathan W Algona. la.

Robinson, John Wales 8 Cottage St., Ware, Mass.

Robinson, John Woodis Leicester, Mass.

Robinson, Rev. Joseph H 47 Barker's Terrace. White Plains, N. Y.

Robinson, Joseph E Farmington. Utah

Robinson, Joseph M 13 Charles St., Portland. Me.

Robinson, Rev. Julius B Turner's Falls, Mass.

Robinson, Leonard Leland Hotel, Emporia, Kas.

Robinson, Leoni Warren 324 Exchange Building. New Haven, Conn.

Robinson. Lewis W Martinsburg, W. Va.

Robinson, Miss Lillian L St. Cloud. Min.

Robinson, Miss Lucille 20 Boylston Road, Newton Highlands, Mass.

Robinson, Miss Martha G 19 Walden St., Lynn. Mass.

Robinson, Mrs. Martha A 203 Cumberland Ave.. Portland. Me.

Robinson, Miss Mary B Chester PL, Wellsborough. Pa.

Robinson, Miss Mary C 93 Chandler St.. Worcester, Mass.

Robinson, Miss Mary C 44 Thatcher St., Bangor. Me.

Robinson, Miss Mary Elizabeth 140 Oxford St., Portland. Me.

Robinson, Miss Mary E. D 135 Du Bois Ave.. Du Bois, Pa.

Robinson, Miss Mary F 12 Federal St., Salem, Mass.

Robinson, Miss Mary Gay Guilford, Conn.

Robinson. Miss Myra S 24 Spring St.. Pawtucket, R. L

Robinson, Miss Myrtie Evelyn Mt. Vernon, Me.

Robinson, Nathan Winthrop 242 Savin Hill. Dorchester. Mass.

Robinson. Neil Charleston. W. Va.

Robinson. Mrs. Nina Beals Waterbury. Vt.

*Robinson. Noah Otis 88 Cross St.. Somerville. Mass.

Robinson, Dr. Oliver Pearce 823 Scott St., Little Rock, Ark.

Robinson, Orin Ponieroy 60 East t,(\ St., Corning, N. Y.

Robinson, Mrs. Orin Pomeroy (Mary Louise)

60 East 3d St., Corning. \. Y.

Robinson, Orlando G Raynham, Mass. ( R. F. D.)

Robinson, Prof. Oscar D 501 State St., Alban}-, X. Y.

Robinson. Prof. Otis Hall 2Jt, Alexander St., Rochester, N. Y.

Robinson. Philip Eaton 284 High St.. Medford, Mass.

Robinson, Philip Eugene 194 Clinton St.. Brooklyn. X. Y.

Robinson, Philip H 1 19 Lark St.. Albany, X. Y.

Robinson, Miss Rachacl Ferrisburg. Vt.

Robinson, Dr. Reinzi Danielson, Conn.

Robinson, Dr. Richard F Dalton. Neb.

Robinson, Mrs. Richard Lewis Portland, Me.

Robinson, Robert E 30 Broad St.. X\^w York

'■'Robinson, Samuel R \ntrini. X. II.

*Robinson, Samuel S Pontiac, .Mich. ( I>ox 126)

Robinson, Sam. S Linden Lake, Mich.

Robinson, Miss Sarah 2904 Morgan St.. St. Louis. Mo.

Robinson. Miss Sarah D Bloomington. ill. ( P.ox 368)

R<il)in'>(in. .Miss S.'irah G Mi<ldk'b(ii-i>. Mass.

158 THE ROBINSONS AND THEIR KIN FOLK

Robinson, Miss Sarah J 178 Pleasant St., Attleboro, Mass.

Robinson, Silas Luce, Neb.

Robinson, Solomon D Falmouth, Mass.

Robinson, Prof. Stillman Williams 1350 Highland St., Columbus, O.

Robinson, Theodore Winthrop 4840 Ellis Ave., Chicago. 111.

Robinson. Thomas Dedham, Mass. (Box 35)

Robinson, Thomas B Dover, Tenn.

Robinson, Uel Merrill Wilmington, N. C.

Robinson, Walter Augustine 34 Jason St., Arlington, Mass.

Robinson, Walter Billings 5 Cochituate St., Natick, Mass.

Robinson. Walter Bruce P. O. Building, Elmira, N. Y.

Robinson, William 9 St. James Ave., Boston, Mass.

Robinson, William Leicester, Mass.

Robinson. Rev. William A., D. D Mill St., Poughkeepsie, N. Y.

Robinson, William A Nashua, N. H.

Robinson, William A Vineyard Haven, Mass.

Robinson, William Austin Gloucester. Mass.

Robinson, W. G Oswego, N. Y.

Robinson, W. H Eastern Township Bank, Granby, P. Q., Can.

Robinson, William H West Chazy, N. Y.

Robinson. William H 375 Main St., Worchester, Mass.

Robinson, William John 242 4th Ave.. Pittsburg, Pa.

Robinson, William L Gloucester, Mass.

Robinson. William M 29 Madison Ave., Grand Rapids, Mich.

Robinson, William ^lorse 300 Adams St., Dorchester, Mass.

Robinson, William Philip Auburn, N. Y.

Robinson, William Whipple 117 South Olive St.. Los Angeles. Cal.

Roe, Mrs. Ella Robinson Patchogue, L. L, N. Y.

Rodman, Mrs. L P. (Harriet E.) 43-45 Worth St., New York, N. Y.

Rose, Miss Aline M Westbury Station, L. L, N. Y.

*Rowland. Rev. L. S Lee, Mass.

Ruggles, Henry Stoddard Wakefield. Mass.

Sanford, Mrs. Carleton F. (Marie D. Robinson) Taunton, Mass.

*Sherman, Hon. Buren Robinson Vinton, la.

Sherman, Miss Evelyn M Waterloo, la.

Sherman, Miss Florence Belle Waterloo. la.

Sherman, James P Waterloo. la.

Sherman, Ward B 315 41st St., Chicago. 111.

Shippee, Mrs. Elizabeth E. R 24 Spring St., Pawtucket, R. I.

Shippee, Harold Robinson 24 Spring St.. Pawtucket, R. I.

Sinclair, John E Station A, Worcester, Mass.

Smith, Mrs. Elizabeth R 93 ChXirch St., North Adams. Mass.

Smith, Philip H. Waddell 619 Westinghouse Building, Pittsburg. Pa.

Southworth. Mrs. A. C Lakeville, Mass.

Spaids, Mrs. Susan E 3245 Indiana Ave., Chicago, 111.

Stabler, Mrs. Jordan (Ellen Walker) 339 Dolphin St., Baltimore, Md.

Stanford. Mrs. Lvdia F. R Chatsworth, 111.

MEMBERS ROBINSON FAMILY ASSOCIATION 159

Starrett, Mrs. Etliclinda Robinson

Nicol Ave., Fruitvale, Alameda Co., Cal.
Stearns, Mrs. Urania Robinson

63 Grover Ave.. Winthrop Highlands, Mass.

Steenburg, Mr.s. Laura 11 Burdick, Kas.

Stephens, Ezra F Crete. Neb.

Stephens, Frank B Salt Lake City, L'tah

Stephens, George Lewis Bryant Pond, Me.

Storms, Mrs. Lucretia R 119 Mill St., New Bedford, Mass.

Stotesbury, Mrs. Sarah Louise. .. .6362 Sherwood Road, Philadelphia, Pa.

Studley, Mrs. Mary Z 283 Lamartine St., Jamaica Plain, Mass.

Talbot, Mrs. Jennie K Phcenixville, Pa.

Tabor, Mrs. Harriet R Castile, N. Y. (R. F. D., No. 3)

Thompson, Mrs. Mary L Mansfield, Mass. (Box 463)

Tingley, Raymon M Herrick Centre. Pa.

Tracy, Airs. Sarah D. R North Raynham, Mass.

Turrell, Mrs. Herbert (Frances H.)

The Lucerne, 201 West 79th St., New York, N. Y.

Verner, Miss Alyce Chip Cathalyce Parke, Pittsburg, Pa.

Verner, Miss Catharine Bailey Cathalyce Parke. Pittsburg, Pa.

Verner. James Parke Cathalyce Parke, Pittsburg. Pa.

Wales. Mrs. Abijah (Alice M.) 61 County St., Attleboro, Mass.

Wardner, Mrs. Fannie Lewis 266 Hicks St., Brooklyn, N. Y.

Waterman. Mrs. Zeno (Sarah W. Robinson) Taunton, Mass.

Wellington, Mrs. B. W. (Anna Robinson)..; West 2d St., Corning, N. Y.

Wetherell, Mrs. Erminie C Holyoke. Mass.

Whitten. Mrs. Marcia F 132 Magazine St., Cambridgeport. Mass.

Whittemore, Miss Lucella Washburn. . .358 Pleasant St.. Worcester, Mass.

Williamson. Mrs. Mary Robinson 704 North State St., Jackson, Miss.

Wilson, George L 591 Lincoln Ave., St. Paul. ]\Iinn.

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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS

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